**Saving Our Investments: NDDC Calls on Host Communities to Safeguard Projects** In the Niger Delta region, where development is critical to the well-being of our people, a pressing concern has been the vandalism and theft of public assets. The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has sounded the alarm, urging host communities to take responsibility for safeguarding the commission's projects. At a recent stakeholders' meeting in Okitipupa, Ondo State, the NDDC emphasized that vandalism, theft, neglect, and destruction of public assets hinder development efforts and slow progress in key sectors like electricity, roads, and basic amenities. The commission lamented that many of its completed projects have been either stolen or vandalized by unscrupulous members of host communities. According to the Executive Director, Corporate Services of the NDDC, Mr Ifedayo Abegunde, the people of the Niger Delta are the owners of these projects and must take responsibility for their protection. He stressed that vandalism and theft not only delay progress but also diminish the returns on resources committed for the benefit of the people. The issue of project vandalism is a recurring one in our communities. Just recently, three projects at Ilaje High School, Igbokoda, were brought down in broad daylight, with everyone watching. The cost of these projects has been credited to those responsible, whether they like it or not. It is imperative that we take collective responsibility for safeguarding our investments. The NDDC has taken a proactive approach to addressing this issue by organizing town hall meetings to engage with stakeholders and identify areas for improvement. The commission is urging residents to be more vigilant and to take ownership of the projects in their communities. As Dr Ajibola Shekoni of the Centre for Peace and Security Studies at Lagos State University noted, the issue of vandalism and theft of NDDC projects is not solely the responsibility of the commission, but also that of the host communities. It is time for us to work together to protect our investments and ensure that the benefits of development are felt by all. In conclusion, the NDDC is calling on host communities to take responsibility for safeguarding its projects. It is a collective effort that requires the active involvement of residents, community leaders, and stakeholders. By working together, we can prevent the vandalism and theft of public assets and ensure that the Niger Delta region continues to develop and prosper.