Ndokwa political leaders and stakeholders have been urged to close ranks and rally around a common agenda to fast-track development, equity and inclusive growth across Ndokwa land.
The call came from media practitioners of Ndokwa extraction under the umbrella of the Ndokwa Media Professionals Forum, following extensive deliberations on pressing public interest and development issues confronting the Ndokwa Nation.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the Forum’s meeting, and signed by its Chairman, Mr. Barth Ozah, and Secretary, Mr. Odili Ogochukwu, the practitioners stressed that unity of purpose among leaders remains fundamental to advancing the collective interest of the Ndokwa people, regardless of political or partisan affiliations.
The Forum warned that persistent divisions and the absence of a common front among Ndokwa leaders could weaken the region’s capacity to attract development and effectively engage higher tiers of government. It therefore urged political leaders, traditional authorities and other stakeholders to rise above personal and partisan interests and speak with one voice on issues of strategic importance to Ndokwa land.
On education and human capital development, the Forum expressed deep concern over what it described as the apparent inadequacy of facilities for the effective take-off of the Federal University of Health and Medical Sciences, Kwale. Members noted that the institution holds enormous potential to transform healthcare training, research and economic activity in the area, but cautioned that without urgent intervention, its promise could be undermined.
Consequently, the Forum called on the Delta State Government, the Ndokwa Local Government Councils and other relevant stakeholders to urgently provide the requisite infrastructure and enabling environment to guarantee the smooth commencement and long-term sustainability of the university.
On infrastructure, the Forum underscored the urgent need for comprehensive electrification across Ndokwa land, describing reliable power supply as a key driver of socio-economic growth, improved security and investment attraction.
While acknowledging ongoing and proposed road projects in the area, the Forum urged sustained government commitment to the development, completion and maintenance of critical road networks, including the Ndemili–Utagbe-Uno Road, the Ogume–Abbi Road, the Aboh–Akarai Road and the Amai–Aragba Road. It described these routes as vital to mobility, commerce and community integration.
In its closing remarks, the Ndokwa Media Professionals Forum reaffirmed its commitment to responsible journalism, constructive engagement and sustained advocacy in promoting good governance and development in Ndokwa land. It resolved to continue deploying the media as a powerful tool for public enlightenment, accountability and progress in the overall interest of the Ndokwa people.
