Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), as part of activities marking its 25th anniversary celebration, yesterday, held an arts and culture parade along the major streets of Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

The street parade featured representatives from the nine states included in the commission, namely, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers.

The representatives, donning their tribal costumes with their carnival floats, moved from the Port Harcourt Polo Club in GRA, through Stadium Road and culminated at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Port Harcourt.

Speaking during the event, NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, said the art and cultural parade was to create relationship among the people of the Niger Delta.

Ogbuku said, “We thank God for giving us a clement weather today so that the Niger Delta people can celebrate today. So, sit back, be comfortable, watch the display. Laugh with whoever you want to laugh with.

“We are here today to foster conviviality amongst ourselves as the people of the Niger Delta; to network amongst ourselves, to build relationships and to bond as a people.

“That is why people have come from different states; maybe, people who have never met themselves before are here to celebrate the Niger Delta.

“Just the way we did during the sports festival, which was the first of its kind, we are here today in Port Harcourt to still build conviviality amongst ourselves, love among the people of the Niger Delta. We might differ in tribes, but Niger Delta is one, Nigeria is one.”

In his remarks, Chairman of the NDDC governing board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, said the event had provided opportunity for Niger Deltans to showcase their rich culture.

Ebie said, “This is remarkable as we come to showcase the diversity of the Niger Delta region. We are here to enjoy ourselves; we are here to show that the Niger Delta is rich in tradition and culture.”

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