Igbeta-Ewoama, Nembe LGA — The European Union (EU), in collaboration with the Italian Shipping Academy Foundation, has pledged to deepen support for communities in the Niger Delta as part of its efforts to combat climate change, enhance food security, and reduce unemployment.
Mr. Davide Stasi, Director of the International Branch of the Italian Shipping Academy Foundation, led a one-day working visit to Igbeta-Ewoama in Nembe Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, to assess the progress of the EU-backed CS-7 Climate Change Project.
The CS-7 initiative, which spans seven states—Edo, Ondo, Delta, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Bayelsa—is designed to provide alternative livelihoods while advocating communal responsibility in addressing the adverse effects of climate change. Bayelsa’s pilot locations include Igbeta-Ewoama in Nembe and Akassa in Brass LGA.
Upon his arrival, Mr. Stasi was warmly received by the chiefs and people of Igbeta-Ewoama with traditional music, dance, and regalia. He was also adorned in the Nembe traditional attire as a symbol of cultural honor and solidarity.
Speaking during the event, the community monarch, His Royal Majesty King S.K. Dorgu Benibo, described the visit as historic. He commended the EU, Mr. Stasi, and the project’s Monitoring and Evaluation Consultant, Mr. Jim Godson Dorgu, for initiating the climate-focused intervention. The monarch expressed hope for further support, stating, “Like Oliver Twist, we ask for more.”
Mr. Jim Godson Dorgu, in his remarks, emphasized that the project—initiated by the European Union with support from its partners—has brought renewed hope to the rural community. He said the piggery farm established in Igbeta-Ewoama represents a sustainable model that could be replicated in other communities across the region.
While inspecting the project site, Mr. Stasi encouraged community stakeholders to take ownership of the initiative and ensure its sustainability. He noted that contrary to some global perceptions, the Niger Delta has remained largely peaceful and ripe for economic transformation.
“We must take ownership of this project,” Mr. Stasi said. “The Niger Delta is a hotbed for economic revolution. This project should serve as a springboard for even greater development. We must not disappoint the European Union and her partners.”
The Nembe Local Government Chairman, Hon. David Alagoa, who hosted the EU delegation, lauded the visit and expressed the council’s commitment to working with the international community to address critical developmental challenges in the area.
“As a council, our doors are open for partnerships,” Alagoa said. “We are excited by this visit and committed to the growth and development of Nembe. Collaboration and investment are part of our cultural heritage. Mr. Davide Stasi, welcome to Nembe land.”
The EU’s visit to Nembe underscores a growing international commitment to sustainable development and climate resilience in the oil-rich but environmentally challenged Niger Delta.
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