Former Executive Director of Projects at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Olorogun Samuel Adjogbe, PhD, FNSE, has expressed cautious optimism for 2026, urging the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu–led Federal Government to deepen support for local production, accelerate infrastructure development, and strengthen national security across the country.
In his New Year message, Adjogbe said 2026 should mark a turning point toward stability, fairness, and measurable national progress, particularly for oil-producing communities of the Niger Delta that continue to bear a disproportionate share of Nigeria’s economic burden.
He called on the Federal Government to deliberately support local production by addressing critical constraints facing manufacturers and small businesses, including unreliable electricity supply, poor federal road networks, and infrastructure deficits that increase the cost of doing business nationwide.
Adjogbe also stressed the need for sustained investment in federal highways and other strategic infrastructure to boost economic productivity, improve interstate connectivity, and support inclusive growth across all regions of the country.
On security, he urged the Tinubu administration to further strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, particularly in counterterrorism and the fight against insurgency and other emerging security threats, noting that no meaningful economic growth can be achieved without safety and stability.
According to him, while tax reforms remain important for revenue generation, their effectiveness ultimately depends on a supportive economic environment—one that prioritises production, infrastructure, and security to enable growth rather than constrain it.
Adjogbe also turned attention to Delta State, expressing expectations of sustained and accelerated development under the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
He emphasised the need for continuity in infrastructure delivery, transparency in project execution, and a strong commitment to value-for-money outcomes.
He noted that visible and durable investments in critical sectors such as road infrastructure, flood control, education, healthcare, and job creation would be key indicators of progress in 2026.
Adjogbe concluded that with discipline, accountability, and collaboration across all levels of government, the new year could mark a turning point toward inclusive development and renewed public confidence, especially in the Niger Delta.
