Former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, Prince Adewole Adebayo, says no indigene of the Niger Delta should live in poverty, given the region’s abundant natural and human resources.
Adebayo made the remark on Friday in Abuja during the public presentation of the “Hidden Treasures: An Exposition on the Rich Resources and Opportunities of the Niger Delta,” a new book authored by Chris Iyovwaye.
Describing the Niger Delta as one of Nigeria’s richest yet most underutilised regions, Adebayo said decades of leadership shortcomings have prevented it from reaching its full potential. He stressed that the region’s prosperity can only be unlocked through deliberate effort, noting that “every treasure requires digging.”
He outlined three key drivers for harnessing the region’s opportunities: individual initiative, community involvement, and government intervention. According to him, the Niger Delta holds sufficient wealth to drive national development and even surpass the economic capacities of several developed nations. He also warned against shallow management of national resources, emphasising that the people remain the region’s greatest asset.
The chairman of the event, Maj.-Gen. Ike Nwachukwu (retd), said Nigeria should not fear restructuring, insisting that every region has the resources required to support sustainable development. He urged citizens to continue supporting the Armed Forces in their efforts to maintain peace and security nationwide.
Human-rights lawyer Prof. Mike Ozekhome, represented by Prof. Ezekiel Abalagba, described the book as a practical roadmap for revitalising key sectors in the Niger Delta. He called for transparent leadership, improved infrastructure, and greater economic diversification into agriculture, fisheries, manufacturing, petrochemicals, technology, and environmental restoration.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Mike Ogiadome, reaffirmed the Niger Delta’s role as Nigeria’s economic engine and underscored the need for long-term investment, including the establishment of a deep-sea port to attract global investors. He recommended the book as a vital resource for policymakers and development partners.
Author Chris Iyovwaye said the book aims to correct long-standing misconceptions by providing clear insights into the region’s wealth, challenges, and pathways to sustainable progress.