NDDC Pledges Completion Of Niger Delta Projects, Embraces Transparency

Port Harcourt, Nigeria – The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to completing all ongoing projects in the region, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directives.

Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku made the pledge during a courtesy visit by civil society organisations (CSOs) and human rights organisations from the nine Niger Delta states.

Ogbuku emphasised the NDDC’s commitment to implementing the President’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” for the region.

He stated that the commission is working hard to meet the President’s expectations, with a focus on completing projects like roads, bridges, schools, and healthcare facilities.

To improve transparency and efficiency, the NDDC hired KPMG, a global audit firm, to review its operations. Ogbuku confirmed that, beginning next month, the commission will fully implement KPMG’s recommendations to address previous anomalies.

Ogbuku highlighted recent achievements, including the repair of the Auchi-Eruwe Road, the reconstruction of sections of the Owerri-Port Harcourt Road, and the restart of work on the Kaa-Ataba Road and bridges in Rivers State. He also mentioned collaborating with Nigeria LNG (NLNG) on the Bonny Ring Road Project.

The “Light up the Niger Delta” project is a key initiative that aims to combat crime, boost socioeconomic activity, and promote peace by using solar-powered street lighting.

Furthermore, the NDDC has begun paying 10,000 beneficiaries of its Youth Internship Scheme, which offers one-year practical skills training. A new digital database for tracking youth qualifications and employment status has also been created.

Civil society leaders, including Mr. Charles Inko Tariah and Otuekong Franklin Isong, applauded the NDDC’s efforts and recognised progress in infrastructure, human capital development, and inclusion.

They expressed their support for the NDDC, emphasising the value of transparency and accountability.

The CSOs also gave Ogbuku an award to recognise his contributions to the region’s development.

They did, however, express concerns about information access and request support for a research/training centre as well as healthcare initiatives.

Sir Victor Antai, NDDC’s Executive Director of Projects, invited the CSOs to upcoming project commissioning events in the Niger Delta.

The NDDC’s commitment to project completion and transparency represents a significant step forward in its efforts to improve the lives of Niger Delta residents.