My Focus Is On Service Delivery, Dont Have Gubernatorial Ambitions, Says Ogbuku, NDDC MD

Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has reiterated his commitment to serving the people of the Niger Delta region, emphasising service delivery as his primary focus.

In a press statement signed by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director, Corporate Affairs, and released following a radio interview on Rhythm 94.7 FM in Yenagoa, Ogbuku dismissed speculation surrounding a potential gubernatorial bid in Bayelsa State in 2027.

“I don’t have any ticket to contest the governorship of Bayelsa State in 2027,” Ogbuku stated emphatically.

He clarified that his sole ambition is to serve the people of the Niger Delta under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the duration of his four-year term.

He further expressed his support for President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

Addressing reported tensions with Bayelsa State Governor Senator Douye Diri, Ogbuku emphasised their strong and positive relationship.

He described Governor Diri as supportive and a father figure, highlighting a recent visit by the NDDC’s Executive Management team as strengthening their collaboration and ensuring synergy between the commission and state governments.

He apologised for any disrespect shown to the Governor by individuals within the commission, urging forgiveness and a unified approach to development.

Ogbuku stressed the need for collaboration among Bayelsans and all Niger Deltans, emphasizing the shared environmental challenges facing the region.

He cited the ongoing channelisation of Kolo Creek, connecting Okarki-Otuogidi-Ogbia communities in Rivers and Bayelsa states, as an example of a project tackling flooding and boosting commercial activities.

The NDDC is also constructing six multi-purpose emergency shelters across Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers states to provide relief to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) affected by frequent flooding.

These shelters will include essential amenities such as schools, hospitals, and recreational facilities.

Ogbuku highlighted the success of the NDDC’s Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), citing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigeria Liquified Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) for sustainable development projects.

The commission has also resumed its Free Healthcare Programme, targeting rural communities.

Finally, Ogbuku listed five major projects recently commissioned by the NDDC across the Niger Delta region, including road infrastructure, electricity substations, and a bridge, demonstrating the commission’s ongoing commitment to development in the region.