Mr Nsima Ekere, Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has called on the U.S. government to support NDDC’s human and capital development programmes for the region.
Ekere said this in a statement by Dr Ibitoye Abosede, Director Corporate Communications of the commission in Port Harcourt.
Ekere spoke when he received Mr F. John Bray, U. S. Consul-General to Nigeria, who led a delegation from the Consulate in Lagos to NDDC headquarters.
He said that providing such assistance would enhance peace and security as well as promote sustainable regional development.
He said: “It is noteworthy that you (Bray) are coming at the onset of our political season. We expect some assistance from the U.S. government.
“We have specific concerns in the Niger Delta, especially during an election period like this; which is principally in the area of security.
“The U.S. government can use its influence to prevail on our politicians to allow democracy to thrive in Nigeria.
“If politicians can be made to play by the rules, it will help in the process of maintaining peace and security during and after the elections,” he said.
Ekere noted that Bray’s visit was indication that the U.S. government was interested to deepen the conversation on the challenges and growth of the region.
The managing director said that in spite progress made that the region was still faced with huge unemployment and poverty level, attributing it to bad leadership.
“Most times what makes the political process explosive and dangerous is the attitude of some sit tight office holders, who do not believe political process is a referendum on performance.
“The reason the constitution allows us to conduct elections every four years is so that those that did well could be considered to continue, while non-performing others are kicked out.
“They (office holders) should be honest enough to allow that process to evolve, so that the citizens can have their say in governance system,” he said.
Bray, in his remarks said that the U.S. government was keeping an eye on happenings and developmental programmes in the Niger Delta, especially as the elections drew closer.
“As part of that; we are visiting key political institutions and figures.
“We are trying to work out ways our government can engage with Nigerians, candidates, INEC and security agencies as we go into the elections,” he said.
“The United States Government does not support any candidate. We support a clean, fair process in which the choices of the Nigerian people will prevail.
“The interest of the United States is to see a free, fair, transparent and non-violent election in Nigeria in 2019.
Bray said that the US would follow events closely to ensure credible and peaceful elections held in Nigeria.