NDDC Wraps Up 25th Anniversary with Glamorous Gala Night in Port Harcourt… Tonte Igbikialabo.
Port Harcourt, Rivers State, It was a night of glitz, glamour, nostalgia, and cultural pride as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) concluded its 25th anniversary celebration with a grand gala night at the EUI Centre, Port Harcourt.
The evening blended fun, music, dance, awards, and a beauty pageant, celebrating not only the milestones of the Commission but also the rich heritage of the Niger Delta region.
The gala night recognized the founding fathers and critical stakeholders both living and deceased who played instrumental roles in the creation and growth of the NDDC. Awards were presented to notable personalities from within and outside the region, honoring their enduring commitment to the Niger Delta cause.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, paid glowing tribute to the past Managing Directors and leaders of the Commission for laying the foundation on which the institution stands today.
“Tonight, we celebrate not only our achievements but also the people whose sacrifices, leadership, and vision brought the NDDC into existence. We remember them with gratitude, including those who are no longer with us,” Dr. Ogbuku said.
Special posthumous awards were given to iconic figures who were instrumental in the struggle for the region’s development. Honorees included Major Isaac Adaka Boro, Dr. M.T. Akobo, Pa Edwin Clark, Sen. Melford Okilo, Ken Saro-Wiwa, Prof. Kimse Okoko, among others—whose legacies were celebrated with standing ovations.
The night also featured a colorful beauty pageant, showcasing the poise, confidence, and cultural pride of young women from across the nine Niger Delta states. After a competitive screening process and dazzling runway appearances, Miss Bayelsa emerged as the winner, with Miss Rivers finishing as runner-up.
The pageant, themed around beauty with purpose, highlighted the intelligence and social impact of young women in the region.
Guests were treated to soul-lifting performances by Timi Dakolo, whose powerful vocals stirred emotions of hope and unity. The All-Star Ensemble also rendered inspiring tunes, while the Cardinals delivered an electrifying cultural performance that paid homage to the region’s diverse traditions.
The gala night attracted a distinguished audience including the President of the Senate, serving senators, deputy governors from the Niger Delta states, traditional rulers, youth leaders, women groups, and other high-ranking stakeholders from government and civil society.
Speakers at the event emphasized the need for continued collaboration among stakeholders to deepen development and peace across the region. Dr. Ogbuku reiterated the Commission’s commitment to transformational projects, youth empowerment, and sustainable economic growth.
The gala night, filled with nostalgia and hope, served as a symbolic bridge between NDDC’s past achievements and its future aspirations for the people of the Niger Delta.
The NDDC’s 25th anniversary gala night was more than a celebration—it was a reflection of the Commission’s journey, a tribute to its champions, and a reaffirmation of its vision to build a stronger, more prosperous Niger Delta.
