Tinubu, Akpabio Laud NDDC Boss As Niger Delta Trailblazer

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, to sustain the delivery of impactful projects that improve lives and instill hope in the people of the Niger Delta region.

Speaking through the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Chief Wale Edun, who represented him at Ogbuku’s 50th Anniversary celebration and the unveiling of two books in Abuja, the President issued this charge.

The events were announced in a statement by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director of Corporate Affairs.

The books, titled ‘Strategies and Imperatives for Developing Niger Delta’ and ‘Rethinking the Niger Delta,’ are authored by Ogbuku and other contributors.

President Tinubu lauded Ogbuku as a transformational leader whose work has positively impacted the Niger Delta region.

“Turning 50 is a golden milestone, a time for gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose. In Dr. Ogbuku’s case, we celebrate not just the years but a life of service, scholarship, and impactful leadership,” the President remarked.

President Tinubu also emphasized the strategic importance of the Niger Delta to Nigeria’s economic and environmental future, noting that the region remains crucial to the country’s national development.

He stated: “The Niger Delta is more than a region; it is the economic heartbeat of this country, central to both our energy and environmental future.

“For decades, the story has been complex and challenging, despite the rich resources on land and water.

“Our administration’s reforms focus on transparency and accountability in resource management, investment in infrastructure and human capital, and empowering communities at the grassroots level to ensure a sustainable future.”

The high-profile event drew an array of prominent leaders, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa; FCT Minister Nyesom Wike; Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa; former Bayelsa Governor Chief Timipre Sylva; PANDEF Chairman Dr. Godknows Igali; and the Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, along with other board members.

In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, a former Minister for Niger Delta Affairs, commended Ogbuku’s reforms and integrity, recalling the troubled past of the NDDC.

“On behalf of the National Assembly, we are proud of you and your achievements.”

Senator Akpabio stated that the NDDC has been transformed under Ogbuku’s leadership, adding: “The NDDC board rarely lasted up to 10 months.

When we were governors, the then-President would often call us to request new nominations. When I inquired as to why, he would explain that the existing appointees were too corrupt and were being removed.

“But today, instead of providing replacements, we are here to celebrate you.

“We celebrate your two years of impactful leadership, two years of focus, two years of collaboration, and two years of dedicated work. You have demonstrated strength and focus in leadership.

“You will be remembered not just for this celebration, but for the lasting legacies you leave behind for the benefit of the people of the Niger Delta,” Akpabio affirmed.

In his goodwill message, the Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, acknowledged Ogbuku’s qualities as a team player.

“He is indeed a great Chief Executive Officer to work with. We, in the NDDC Board, will continue to cooperate with him to ensure that we sustain the achievements that have been recorded,” Ebie said.

In response, Ogbuku expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu for entrusting him with the leadership of the Commission.

He recalled that the President’s initial challenge to him and his team served as inspiration for the reforms and achievements being realized.

“Mr. President gave me the spark,” Ogbuku stated. “He challenged us to restore confidence in the NDDC, and that is what we set out to do. Any success we have achieved so far is due to his encouragement and confidence in our team.”

“I want to thank Mr. President not only for appointing me to the NDDC, but also for providing the impetus that ignited the spark within me.

“Therefore, I attribute any achievements we have realized in the NDDC to Mr. President, as he decided to take a personal interest in ensuring that the NDDC succeeds.”

Ogbuku reflected on his journey from humble beginnings to national leadership, crediting his success to his parents, teachers, and political mentors.

He also urged Niger Delta governors to increase collaboration with the commission to expedite progress and ensure inclusive growth across the region.

“We can only achieve sustainable development through synergy. Together, we can transform the lives of our people.”