𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐭𝐚 𝐬𝐮𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐬 – 𝐉𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧

Former President Goodluck Jonathan says the Niger Delta’s slow development is largely a result of personal interests and weak political commitment, which have hindered key economic and regional growth initiatives.

Speaking at the launch of The Hidden Treasures, a book authored by Chris Iyovwaye, Jonathan noted that several plans designed for the region over the years were abandoned due to rivalry, selfish agendas and a lack of collective resolve among stakeholders.

He explained that despite the Niger Delta’s strategic economic importance, progress has repeatedly been stalled by decisions driven more by power struggles than public good. According to him, this pattern has undermined efforts to improve infrastructure, industry, and human capital in the region.

Jonathan stressed that genuine development would only be achieved when leaders place regional interest above personal gain and demonstrate the political will to sustain long-term projects.

He urged policymakers, community leaders and development agencies to adopt a united approach, warning that the region would continue to lag behind if the current attitude persists.