Prof. Jerry Gana Calls for Renewed Vision for Niger Delta at Launch of “Hidden Treasures”
Abuja, Nigeria — Njenje Media News
Renowned statesman and former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana, has issued a passionate call for a bold and transformative approach to developing the Niger Delta, declaring that the region “can be wonderful, beautiful, and one of the finest places in the Federal Republic of Nigeria—if properly managed.”
Prof. Gana made the remarks at the public presentation of “Hidden Treasures of the Niger Delta,” a new book authored by Deacon Chris, an engineer and development advocate. The event, covered by Njenje Media, attracted a distinguished gathering of political leaders, diplomats, and policymakers.
Representing former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan was his close associate, Chief Mike Oghiadomhe, who chaired the occasion. Prof. Gana lauded the former president’s consistent commitment to national unity and regional development.
“NDDC Must Rise to Its Mandate,” Gana Declares
In an emotionally charged reflection, the former minister recounted how the idea for the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) emerged in 1999 during the early months of the Obasanjo administration. At that time, he was tasked with leading a major seminar on the future of the region.
He recalled that the seminar, chaired by the late Tanzanian president Julius Nyerere, produced “brilliant papers” outlining a roadmap for transforming the Niger Delta into a world-class economic hub.
However, Prof. Gana expressed disappointment with the NDDC’s performance, noting that the Commission had deviated from its original vision.
“When I see them building primary schools, I say ‘no, no, no.’
The vision was to transform the Niger Delta with excellent infrastructure. The resources were provided for that mandate.”
He urged present stakeholders and leaders of the Commission to “arise and do something truly great for the people of the Niger Delta.”
Deacon Chris Hailed as “Solution Provider”
Turning to the author of Hidden Treasures, Prof. Gana praised Deacon Chris for producing a work that highlights the enormous natural and economic potentials of the Niger Delta.
He described him as:
“A solution provider—someone who gives brilliant ideas for development.”
Prof. Gana went further to express confidence in Deacon Chris’s leadership abilities, openly endorsing him as a strong contender for the governorship of Delta State.
“If you are given the mandate to govern Delta, you will govern well,” he stated to loud applause from the audience.
Coverage of the event by Njenje Media captured the enthusiastic response from attendees and leaders across sectors.
A Call for Regional Renewal
Prof. Gana concluded by urging leaders, policymakers, and citizens of the Niger Delta to study the book carefully and use its insights to advance development.
“The good Lord has already provided hidden treasures.
We must discover them, utilize them, and apply them for transformation.”
As the event wrapped up, special guest representatives, dignitaries, and participants joined in applauding both the author and the call for renewed commitment to the future of the region—a moment widely shared across platforms, including Njenje Media.
