Professor Isaac Albert, of the Department of Peace and Conflict Studies, UI
A University of Ibadan professor has called on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to strengthen its conflict-prevention systems, warning that sustainable development in the region depends on early intervention.
Professor Isaac Albert, of the Department of Peace and Conflict Studies, made the call on Thursday at the opening of a four-day NDDC retreat in Lagos. The event focused on building effective early warning mechanisms to support President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Albert stressed that early-warning systems must go beyond data collection. “We need structures that trigger action, not just document crises,” he said, highlighting the importance of community involvement, including youths, market women, and local leaders.
Represented at the event, NDDC Managing Director Dr Samuel Ogbuku emphasised that risks such as flooding and environmental pollution are recurring threats that communities often cannot anticipate. “If we know our problems early, we can provide solutions before they escalate,” he said.
Ogedegebe Godwin, Acting Director of the NDDC’s Dispute and Conflict Resolution Department, described an effective early-warning system as “a lifeline,” enabling communities to respond to tensions before they spiral into conflict.
Experts at the retreat highlighted longstanding challenges in the Niger Delta, including youth unemployment, environmental degradation, and governance gaps, stressing that trust and collaboration among stakeholders are crucial for lasting peace.
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