The newly appointed Chairman of the Niger Delta Basin Development Authority (NDBDA), Chief Bosin Ebikeme, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to the development of the Niger Delta region and for his genuine care for its people.

The NBDBA Chairman's remarks, as contained in a press statement he issued on Tuesday, January 28, is in reaction to the signing of the Bill establishing the Nigeria Maritime University (NMU) situated in Okerenkoko, Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West council area of Delta State, into law, on Monday, January 27, 2025.

Chief Bosin in his appreciation to the President described the move as a landmark achievement, the beginning of progress in the region, and that it was a “tremendous gift to the people of the Niger Delta.”

He said, “I, Chief (Barr.) Bosin Ebikeme, Chairman of the Niger Delta Basin Development Authority, wish to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his historic decision to sign into law the Bill for the Establishment of the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko.

“This landmark achievement is a clear reflection of his steadfast commitment to the development of the Niger Delta region and his genuine care for its people. The signing of this bill into law on Monday, January 27, 2025, marks a new chapter of opportunity and progress for our region,” he added.

“The establishment of the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, is not just a victory for Gbaramatu Kingdom, but a significant milestone for the entire Niger Delta region,” he stressed, adding that “It symbolizes hope, growth, and the promise of a brighter future for our youth and communities.”

The NBDBA Chairman also commended other stakeholders in the region for their unwavering commitment that paced the way for the signing of the bill he describes as "milestone achievement".

The native of Gbaramatu Kingdom and holder of the Digbolomowei traditional titled extended his gratitude to the entire National Assembly and specifically to the senators representing Delta South Senatorial District, Senator James Manager for first laying the foundation in presenting the bill; Senator Joel Onowakpo Thomas, who reintroduced the bill in 2023; and Hon. Julius Pondi, the member representing Burutu Federal Constituency, for his “crucial role at the forefront of this effort.”

He thanked High Chief Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo; and Mr. Matthew Tonlagha, whose contributions and selfless commitment "have been instrumental in ensuring the actualization of this dream,” while noting that their “contributions will forever be remembered as an integral part of this historic achievement.”

The NBDBA Chairman further acknowledged the unwavering support of Ijaw national leader, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark; the Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, HRM Oboro-Gbaraun II (JP), Aketekpe, Agadagba; the Fiyewei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, High Chief Godspower Gbenekama (JP); former Deputy Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Dcn. (Barr.) Kingsley Otuaro; and Chief (Barr.) Fedude Zimughan among others.

“The establishment of the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, is not just a victory for Gbaramatu Kingdom, but a significant milestone for the entire Niger Delta region. It symbolizes hope, growth, and the promise of a brighter future for our youth and communities,” he asserted.

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