Port Harcourt – Stakeholders have urged the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to expedite the committed implementation and completion of the Niger Delta Regional Development Master Plan.
The call was made at the posthumous 60th birthday celebration of Sir Davies Okarevu and the launch of the Davies Okarevu Hearts of Hope Initiative in Port Harcourt on Monday.
Delivering the keynote address, a delivering consultant, Mr Iniruo Wills, described the master plan as the most enduring tribute to the late development strategist.
He said that Davies, who served as Director of Planning, Research and Statistics at the NDDC, played a pivotal role in shaping the Niger Delta’s long-term development vision.
“Davies was a key architect and promoter of the region’s master plan, successfully coordinating the first phase and providing strategic guidance for subsequent stages,” he said.
Wills further identified excellence, commitment to people, and dedication to community as defining pillar of Davies’ life.
“The late strategist believed success was incomplete unless it was shared, and that influence was wasted if it failed to create opportunities for others.
“His legacy lies in crafting a development blueprint capable of transforming communities across the Niger Delta,” he added.
He called for a bold acknowledgement of the late icon’s role in the formulation of the regional master plan, noting that prioritising its implementation would democratise opportunities and improve living standards.
Also speaking, the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics at the NDDC, Dr Patterson Ogon, described Davies as an exemplary administrator.
According to Ogon, the late strategist’s impact transcended the commission and remains evident in regional development planning.
In his remark, the pioneer Director of Planning at the NDDC, Mr Atei Beredugo, described Davies as an asset to the commission.
He said that Davies contributed significantly to the production of the first regional development master plan for the Niger Delta.
The highlight of the event was the launch of the Davies Okarevu Hearts of Hope Initiative, established to promote service, mentorship and community development. (NAN)
