NDDC Boss, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, Celebrates 50th Birthday with Thanksgiving in Ayakoro.
Ayakoro, Bayelsa State — It was a week-long celebration that culminated in Ayakoro, the hometown of the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief (Dr.) Samuel Ogbuku, PhD, PRH, as he marked his golden jubilee with a thanksgiving service to God for His faithfulness.
The thanksgiving service, held at St. Mark Anglican Church, Ayakoro, brought together family, friends, political leaders, traditional rulers, captains of industry, and well-wishers from across Nigeria and beyond.
Chief Ogbuku, accompanied by his wife Amb. Dr. Mrs. Amaba Sam-Ogbuku and their children, led the congregation in gratitude. The celebrant took the first scripture reading from 1 Chronicles 16:29–34, while his wife read from 1 Thessalonians 5:12–18.
In his reflections, Chief Ogbuku described his journey to 50 as a tapestry of “sweet and bitter experiences” sustained by faith in God. “Through it all, the Lord has taken me this far,” he said. He paid tribute to his late father, his mother Madam Victoria Opusi, his wife, and children, acknowledging their unwavering support through life’s highs and lows.
He also expressed appreciation to the Bayelsa States Government for identifying with the occasion, the Governor of Bayelsa State for his “uncommon show of love,” and the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the trust reposed in him. “Mr. President, you have shown me confidence, love, and trust. The only thing I owe you is not to fail you, not to fail the Niger Delta, and not to fail the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he declared.
The thanksgiving drew massive support groups from communities including Ekowe, Ikibiri, and Amassoma in Southern Ijaw LGA, whose colorful presence lit up Ayakoro town.
The golden jubilee celebration continued at the HRM King P.I. Nathan Square, Ayakoro, where dignitaries joined in honoring the NDDC boss.
Notable Guests in Attendance
– His Excellency Sen. Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State (represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Dr. Peter Akpe).
– Members of the NDDC Governing Board, including Executive Director Projects, Sir Victor Etim Antai, PhD, and his wife.
– Sen. Dimaro Denny, Bayelsa State Representative in the Senate.
– Rt. Hon. Metropa Dawson Soniaye and wife.
– Barr. Justice Rex Ogboluku and family.
– Bayelsa State House of Assembly Principal Officers and Members.
– Sir Dr. Tonye Eriye, Commissioner, Federal Character Commission.
– Barr. Dennis Otiotio, PhD, Chairman, APC Bayelsa State.
– Chief Ayiri Emami, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of A & E group,
– APC leaders, party members, and stakeholders across LGAs.
– Traditional rulers, including High Chief Ajimini Erimie, Bobogbor of Keni.
– Captains of industry, security officials, and community leaders.
– Members of the Supreme Leadership Forum, PH City One Love Social Club of Nigeria, and numerous associates, friends, and well-wishers.
Chief Ogbuku, overwhelmed by the outpouring of love, promised to repay the kindness of his people with unwavering service. “The large turnout of people who travelled from far and near is a testimony of love. My prayer is that God will replenish everyone who made sacrifices to attend, and grant them joy and celebration in return,” he said.
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