The head of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, emphasized the organization’s dedication to completing all ongoing projects in the Niger Delta region, following instructions from President Bola Tinubu. Dr. Ogbuku made this statement during a visit from leaders of civil society groups and human rights organizations from the nine states of the Niger Delta to the commission’s headquarters in Port Harcourt. The NDDC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, issued a statement confirming Dr. Ogbuku’s commitment to realizing the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government in the Niger Delta area.
Dr. Ogbuku reiterated the commission’s determination to fulfill the President’s directive to finalize various regional projects such as roads, bridges, schools, and healthcare facilities. He also highlighted the NDDC’s focus on transformational leadership and accountability. Dr. Ogbuku mentioned the engagement of the audit firm KPMG to review the commission’s operations, with plans to implement the recommendations for improved transparency and efficiency starting next month.
Moreover, Dr. Ogbuku shared recent accomplishments in infrastructure development, including repair work on the Auchi-Eruwe Road and reconstruction of sections of the Owerri-Port Harcourt Road. He also mentioned ongoing projects like the Kaa-Ataba Road, bridges connecting Khana and Andoni Local Government Areas, and the Bonny Ring Road in collaboration with Nigeria LNG (NLNG).
The NDDC boss discussed the Light up the Niger Delta initiative, a solar-powered street lights project aimed at enhancing security, socio-economic activities, and peace in the region. Dr. Ogbuku also announced the commencement of payments to 10,000 beneficiaries participating in the Youth Internship Scheme for skills training to empower youth in the Niger Delta. Additionally, he highlighted the commission’s efforts to maintain a digital database of youth information for effective empowerment.
The leader of the Civil Society Groups, Mr. Charles Tariah, praised the NDDC for engaging with stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of collaboration for the progress and development of the Niger Delta region. Mr. Tariah acknowledged the administration’s achievements in infrastructure, human capital development, education, health, and inclusivity among stakeholders.