Abstract:
The Niger Delta Development Commission was primarily established to enable the government to make amends for its long-standing neglect of the Niger Delta region. The study examined the role of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission in ensuring financial accountability in the Nigerian public sector, especially with the Niger Delta Development Commission, from 2011 to 2021. The study adopted the content analysis method (thematic method) as the data was mainly from secondary sources. Analysis of data gathered indicated that in the Niger Delta region, the human development index has significantly decreased in 2016, 2018, and 2019. By implication, the enormous sum of money invested in the area via NDDC and other organizations has not significantly raised the average life expectancy, rate of literacy, or income of the locals. High-ranking members of the NDDC, together with their political supporters, have been detained and charged by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission with defrauding the government of funds and manipulating financial ethics. Since 2000, the Niger Delta region has continued to be a battleground between the security forces and unruly youths. Piped water, decent road networks, hospitals, and educational facilities, among other necessities, have remained a mirage. Based on the above findings, the researchers recommended a huge and holistic investment in human capital development, basic amenities, and financial assistance to the locals. The EFCC should step up its efforts to prevent and prosecute corruption in the NDDC and other government agencies. Finally, the government must engage in dialogue with the youth in order to achieve long-term peace and stability in the region.
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