By NATHAN NWAKAMMA

Movement for the Survival of Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND), on Sunday, commended the appointment of Chief Okon Umanah as the new Minister of Niger Delta Affairs.

National President of MOSIEND, Mr Kenedy Tonjo-West, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Yenagoa that the people of Niger Delta region were optimistic that Umanah had the capacity to make a difference.

Tonjo-West noted that given the support, Umanah would salvage the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) from the neglect and manipulation it had suffered in the past.

He regretted that the non-composition of a substantive board for NDDC for over three years had deprived the region of the much-needed development that had necessitated the creation of the interventionist agency.

“MOSIEND urges the people of Niger Delta to support and cooperate with the minister for democratic dividends to get to the people.

“As an accomplished economist, accountant and public administrator, we are expecting credible, transparent and people-oriented policies.

“The policies should, in particular, cover human capital development, entrepreneurship and vocational training, incentive to grow SMEs, cottage industries, improved volunteering, attracting investors and health care, etc.,” Tonjo-West said.

He urged Umana to ensure immediate constitution of a substantive board for NDDC to ensure a broad-based participation in the affairs of the commission. (NAN)