NDDC Celebrates 25 Years of Service to the Niger Delta Region… Bliss Blessing Chukwuma

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) marked its 25th anniversary with a plenary session held on July 12, 2025, at the Obi Wali International Conference Center in Port Harcourt. The event began with a welcome address by NDDC’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku.

Dr. Ogbuku emphasized that the silver jubilee celebration is an opportunity to reaffirm the commission’s founding mandate. He highlighted the importance of a coordinated, long-term, and inclusive vision for the region’s transformation.

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, WTO Director-General, delivered a keynote address, stressing the NDDC’s responsibility to the people of the Niger Delta. She emphasized the need for concrete results and measurable impact, prioritizing sustainable economic growth and projects that benefit rural communities.

Dr. Okonjo-Iweala expressed disappointment over the limited impact of the NDDC despite significant funding and project initiatives. She encouraged the commission to refocus on its core mandate and deliver real impact.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan commended the current leadership of the NDDC under Dr. Ogbuku for its purposeful governance and people-oriented projects. He urged the commission to deepen its commitment to the region’s development and inclusive governance.

The event saw the attendance of notable dignitaries and top government officials, including:

-President of Nigeria ably represented by the Secretary of the Government of Federation, Senator George Akume, President of the Nigerian Senate Senator Godswill Akpabio, Former President Goodluck Jonathan, Rivers State Sole Administrator His Excellency, Vice Admiral Ibom-Ete Ibas (Rtd), Deputy Governor of Imo State H.E. Chinyere Ekomaru, Minister of Regional Development Engr. Abubakar Momoh, Senator Ned Nwoko, Chairman of the Senate Committee on NDDC Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, represented by Bassey Edet Otu, Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board Mr. Chinedu Ebie, Ipalibo Harry Banigo Member of the Nigerian Senate, Hon. Francis Ogban, Hon. Thomas Aruku, Timi Alaibe, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke.

The celebration showcased the NDDC’s achievements and commitment to the Niger Delta Region’s growth and development over the past 25 years.