In a proactive bid to articulate the developmental needs of Tai Local Government Area of Rivers State and chart a holistic framework for addressing them, Chairman of the LGA, Matthew Dike, has inaugurated the Tai Development Summit Steering Committee.

Dike inaugurated the Committee on Monday, October 14, 2024 at the LG Council Liaison Office in Nonwa, Rivers State.

The event marked a key moment in the take-off of the Chairman’s administration, which is focused on addressing the challenges inherited from his predecessor’s administration, which, according to him, was one having a “faulty foundation”.

During his address, the Tai LGA boss explained the rationale behind the convocation of the summit, which gathered experts from various fields, including the academia, business, captains of industries, and education, was the need to articulate a comprehensive blueprint for the development of Tai that would guide future growth and progress.

“I am committed to ensuring the diligent implementation of the blueprint once it is drafted by this committee”, he said.

Professor Desmond Nbete of the Department of Philosophy at the University of Port Harcourt was appointed Chairman of the Committee, which was tasked with spearheading the development initiative of the administration.

In his acceptance speech, Professor Nbete expressed gratitude to the Chairman and other members of the administration for the confidence reposed in him and members of the Committee, and also conveyed the acceptance of his other committee members.

Professor Nbete made a strong academic reference to the “triple helix” model, stating that “the gown must go to the town”, explaining that the concept underscores the importance of collaboration between universities, industry, and government in driving development and innovation.

His remarks resonated with the summit’s goals of fostering practical and sustainable solutions for Tai advancement.

The inauguration ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the Leader of the Tai Legislative Council, Joshua Lagalo, who extended his appreciation to the chairman, council, and all participants for their commitment to the future of Tai.

This summit is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the developmental trajectory of the Tai Local Government Area, with the committee set to present its recommendations in the coming days.