
Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has announced a new chapter of hope and transformation for the Niger Delta. He marked the Commission’s 25th anniversary with a clear focus on transparency, collaboration, and sustainable development.
At an event in Port Harcourt, Ogbuku acknowledged the region’s difficult past but insisted those dark days are behind them. He assured stakeholders that the Commission now operates with clarity of purpose and renewed commitment to the people. The gathering brought together top dignitaries, traditional rulers, industry players, and youth leaders from across the nine NDDC states.
Ogbuku stressed that the future depends on partnerships, community engagement, and responsible governance. His leadership prioritizes impact over noise and results over excuses. Drawing lessons from past failures, he has reshaped strategies to redefine how development should be delivered.
He highlighted major projects completed throughout the region, including roads, schools, health centers, and clean water systems. Beyond building infrastructure, the Commission works to restore confidence. Communities increasingly see the NDDC as a true development partner, not a distant institution.
The anniversary theme, “NDDC at 25: Rewind to Rebirth,” reflects the Commission’s transition from controversy to credibility. Ogbuku explained that new reforms promote accountability and attract investment. Transparency tools now track spending to ensure funds serve their intended purposes.
Ogbuku also introduced the “Project Hope” initiative, which equips young people with skills, internships, and entrepreneurship opportunities. This program connects the Commission’s goals with the aspirations of Niger Delta youths.
Traditional rulers praised Ogbuku’s leadership style during the event. They commended his openness, regular consultations, and commitment to completing legacy projects. Several noted that, for the first time in years, they felt directly involved in NDDC decisions.
The Commission is entering its most productive era, Ogbuku said. He promised to revive abandoned projects and base new efforts on actual community needs. He called on Niger Delta leaders to unite, emphasizing that development requires collective effort.
Key stakeholders expressed strong support as the event concluded. They applauded the Commission’s recent progress and encouraged its leadership to maintain momentum. Ogbuku’s remarks balanced realism with hope; he acknowledged past mistakes while assuring that lessons had been learned.
His leadership fosters renewed trust. Communities now participate more actively in planning, and expectations are managed better. With clear vision and steady action, the NDDC gains real momentum.
Under Ogbuku’s guidance, the Commission shows that aligning purpose with service delivers results. Though the Niger Delta has struggled, its future looks much brighter.