NDDC Showcases 25 Years of Service, Vows to Complete Legacy Projects

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has highlighted its achievements over the past 25 years, reaffirming its commitment to complet...

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has highlighted its achievements over the past 25 years, reaffirming its commitment to completing key infrastructural projects and transforming the Niger Delta region.

Speaking during a World Press Briefing held at the Dome Event Centre in Asaba, Delta State, NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, declared that the Commission had made measurable progress in its mandate to deliver sustainable development across the region.

“Our motto is ‘making a difference,’ and I believe we have done that over the years,” Ogbuku said. “The President gave us a clear directive to transform the Niger Delta, and we are committed to completing all ongoing projects including roads, bridges, schools, and health facilities.”

Ogbuku emphasized that collaboration with regional stakeholders was essential to achieving the Commission’s goals. “Development in the Niger Delta must be a joint effort. Stability within the NDDC has given us a unique opportunity to deliver on our promise to the people,” he said.

According to the NDDC boss, the Commission has transitioned from a transactional model to a transformational one. He noted that the procurement system has been digitalized to enhance transparency and prevent fraud. “Nobody can fake NDDC procurement documents anymore,” he added.

As part of institutional reforms, the Commission, in partnership with global consulting firm KPMG, has reorganized its structure into 13 statutory directorates, established Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and adopted standard operating procedures (SOPs) to drive efficiency and accountability.

Reflecting on recent accomplishments, Ogbuku listed several flagship infrastructure projects commissioned in the past year. These include:

• The 27.5-kilometre Ogbia-Nembe Road in Bayelsa State, constructed in collaboration with Shell Petroleum Development Company, featuring seven bridges and 50 culverts, linking 14 communities.

• The 6-kilometre Iko-Atabrikang-Akata Road and the 600m Ibeno Bridge in Akwa Ibom State.

• The 9-kilometre Obehie-Oke-Ikpe Road in Ukwa West LGA, Abia State.

• A 45-kilometre 33KV power line from Omotosho Power Station to Okitipupa in Ondo State, electrifying 25 long-neglected local governments.

• A 15MVA electricity substation in Amufi, Benin City, Edo State.

“These are not just projects; they are life-changing interventions,” Ogbuku said.

He acknowledged that frequent changes in NDDC leadership in the past had hampered progress, but stated that the current Board and Management were focused on delivering “legacy projects” that would stand the test of time.

In his opening remarks, Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, stressed the importance of collaboration with stakeholders—including the media—to ensure transparent and effective service delivery.

“The media is a vital partner in the development process. Your role in shaping public perception and holding institutions accountable is critical,” Ebie said.

Also speaking at the event, the Commission’s Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, outlined activities commemorating the 25th anniversary. The celebration began with a Thanksgiving service in Akure, Ondo State, and will conclude on Saturday, July 12, with a grand plenary session and gala night in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.