A Niger Delta youth leader, Asikitams Edward, has asked the Federal Government to change how the 13% derivation fund is used. He said the money to go straight to big construction companies like Julius Berger, RCC etc, instead of passing through state governors.
Comr Asikitams said this would speed up building projects in the Niger Delta and make the region more modern, similar to Abuja. He argued that giving the money only to governors has not produced enough visible projects for local communities.
He also mentioned that during the time of former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida, the government worked with companies like Julius Berger to develop Abuja. Edward said this shows direct funding can deliver results.
To make this plan legal, he suggested changing Nigeria’s constitution. The change would allow communities, local governments, and states to nominate representatives to monitor the projects and the money.
Under this plan, the funds would go straight to construction companies, while a committee of community and government representatives would ensure the money is spent properly and projects are completed on time.
Comr Asikitams said this approach would give people real results, like new roads, bridges, and urban improvements, rather than the money being absorbed into state budgets with little accountability.
He admitted the proposal is different from the current system, but supporters believe direct funding with community oversight could finally bring the development the Niger Delta has been waiting for
