Four universities working together to solve the problems of underdevelopment in the Niger Delta have called on the government for urgent support and funding for research activities.
In a statement shared with the media, the institutions involved are the Centre for Research and Development at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education in Rivers State, the Institute for Niger Delta Studies at Niger Delta University (NDU) in Bayelsa, the Centre for Water and Sanitation at Rivers State University, and the Centre for Niger Delta Studies at Delta State University, Abraka.
These academic centres are focused on key issues such as forest and marine resource conservation, environmental pollution, erosion, flooding, peace and conflict resolution, and preserving the culture and history of the oil-rich region. The directors stated that while research is expensive, it remains a powerful tool for shaping policies and guiding government interventions. They appealed to federal and state governments, as well as international and nonprofit organisations, to invest in meaningful research that will benefit the Niger Delta.
Speaking after a joint strategic meeting, Professor Peter Ottuh, Director of the Centre for Niger Delta Studies at Delta State University, stated that a committee will soon be formed to identify areas of collaboration and seek partnerships. He said conferences, seminars, and workshops will be organised to share findings and drive action.
His counterpart from NDU, Prof Elliot Sibiri, added that collaboration is key to long-term success. He called on the government to engage local artisanal oil refiners, noting that they possess valuable technical skills, despite their current environmental harm. Additionally, Prof. Sunday Abraye, the former Acting Director at NDU, noted that the region shares similar problems due to cultural ties. He emphasised that collaboration across universities will help provide unified solutions and more effective recommendations for development.
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