ABUJA – A coalition of prominent Nigerian leaders has called for a decisive and unified national strategy to unlock the Niger Delta’s vast economic potential, arguing that the region’s development is crucial for the nation’s overall stability and prosperity.
The calls were made at the public presentation of “The Hidden Treasures,” a book by Deacon Chris Iyowaye, which served as a platform for urgent dialogue on the region’s future.
Former President Jonathan Calls for Stability and Investment
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, represented by his former Chief of Staff, Dr. Mike Ogiadomhe, emphasized that development cannot flourish amidst instability. He urged a collaborative approach involving government, investors, and local communities.
“The Niger Delta must not remain trapped in old challenges,” Jonathan stated. “We must work together… to build a region that is stable, prosperous, and fully integrated into Nigeria’s development agenda.”
He highlighted the need for stronger institutions, modern infrastructure, and sustained investment in education and technology as foundational pillars for progress.
Adebayo: Nigeria “Too Blessed to Be Poor”
Prince Adewole Adebayo, former Presidential candidate and chief launcher at the event, delivered a stark message on national leadership. He declared that Nigeria’s poverty is unjustifiable given its immense resource wealth.
“Nigeria is too blessed to be poor. Every square inch of this country contains treasure,” Adebayo asserted, placing special emphasis on the Niger Delta. He critiqued the failure of successive leaders to identify and harness these assets, stating, “Some treasures appear hidden because leadership has been blind to them.”
Ozekhome Frames Book as a “Movement” for Rejuvenation
In a keynote address delivered by Prof. Ezekiel Abalaba, Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE), Senior Advocate of Nigeria Prof. Mike Ozekhome hailed “The Hidden Treasures” as a transformative work. He described it as “a literary goldmine,” “an economic forecast,” and “a development blueprint.”
Ozekhome argued for a paradigm shift, stating that the Niger Delta should be treated as a critical growth engine for Nigeria, not merely a zone for resource extraction. He urged policymakers to leverage the book’s insights on digital innovation, security, and inclusive economic reforms.
A Call to Action from a Former Minister
Chairman of the occasion, former Minister of Foreign Affairs Major General Ike Nwachukwu, challenged Nigerians to move beyond criticism to active participation. “Nations are not rebuilt by spectators,” he declared, stressing that meaningful civic engagement is essential for national transformation.
Author Commits to Tangible Development
The author, Deacon Chris Iyowaye, revealed that the book is the product of nearly two decades of research. He positioned it as a corrective to narratives that define the Niger Delta only by its conflicts and oil, instead portraying it as “a reservoir of brilliance and untapped potential” in agriculture, solid minerals, and marine resources.
Iyowaye announced that the book provides the conceptual foundation for the New Crete Oil Foundation, an initiative that will direct proceeds toward providing clean water, agricultural training for women, and leadership programs for the youth in the region.
“If we do not invest in our people, we have no moral right to speak of transformation,” Iyowaye said. “This project is not just a publication—it is a commitment.”
