Niger Delta: Ogbuku-led NDDC on the right trajectory of accelerating regional devt–Ex-IYC spokesman, Ebilade Ekerefe

Former National Spokesman of the Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) worldwide, Comrade Ebilade Ekerefe has has handed a pass mark on the performance of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) led by Dr. Samuel Ogbuku.

According to Ekerefe, the NDDC under the Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku has saved the blushes of those who strongly advocate and agitate for the appointment of a substantive board of the commission by placing the commission on the right trajectory of accelerating regional development, consolidating peace and bringing prosperity to the doorsteps of our people.

Comrade Ebilade Ekerefe, who is also the founder and leader of the Niger Delta Advocacy Group-New Era Movement, in a statement titled “DR. SAMUEL OGBUKU’S NDDC: A BEACON OF HOPE FOR THE NIGER DELTA” stated that “As a key stakeholder in the Niger delta project that has contributed to the advocacy and intellectual agitations that culminated into the appointment of a substantive board of the NDDC during my time as the Spokesman of the Ijaw Youth Council,it gladdens my heart to report back to our people that the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, under the dynamic leadership of Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, MD/CEO has demonstrated unwavering commitment to transforming the Niger Delta into a region of growth, prosperity and peace.”

“A Viable leadership is determined by the vision, drive and dedication to the mandate.

Samuel Ogbuku emergence as Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission has redefined the Commission’s mandate and resonate the original ideology as an interventionist agency.”

“Communities in the region have metamorphosed into huge construction sites lately, which is a clear departure from the past when the Niger Delta was plagued by abandoned projects. Under Dr. Ogbuku’s leadership, the Niger Delta, is experiencing the completion and commissioning of numerous projects while the future holds even more promise.”

“His pioneering project shortly after his appointment as the NDDC helmsman, “operation light up the Niger Delta” where solar powered street lights illuminates every nook and cranny of the region clearly demonstrates his commitment to rekindle hope of a better Niger Delta.”

“This remarkable initiative has helped reduce criminality and enhanced commercial activities in the region and creating a safer and more vibrant environment for all.Furthermore, the timely approval of the NDDC’s 2024 budget of N1.9 trillion is poised to accelerate socio-economic development across the region.”

“Recall that as Ogbuku presented this budget to the House of Representatives Committee on the NDDC, he emphasized the board determination to lay a solid foundation for sustainable economic growth and a greener future.”

“Aptly titled the “Budget of Renewed Hope,” the document reflects the Commission’s renewed focus on real development, free from political interference which had bedeviled its activities over the years.”

“We are proud to state that he has not deviated from his target on this budget.One of the hallmarks of Ogbuku’s leadership is his dedication to transparency as exemplified in the selection processes for various NDDC initiatives which have been seamless and transparent, ensuring that all stakeholders benefit from the Commission’s work.”

“Recently, in collaboration with the NDDC Advisory Committee, comprising the governors of the nine Niger Delta states, the Commission reaffirmed its commitment to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, pledging to build a region that is socially stable, economically prosperous, and politically peaceful. We stand bold to say that he is keeping to his promise”.

“Dr. Ogbuku’s focus on youth empowerment remains a top priority. The NDDC’s Youth Internship Scheme, launched in August 2024, will benefit 10,000 youths from across the Niger Delta, providing them with a monthly stipend and equipping them with self-sustaining skills.”

“This initiative is deliberately designed to promote the dignity of labor and reinforces the Commission’s dedication to nurturing future leaders who will drive the region’s economic and social transformation which hitherto wasn’t the case.”

“Furthermore, the NDDC has embarked on critical infrastructure projects, including the construction of six multi-purpose emergency shelters in Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers States to support Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) during flooding.”

“The shelters, equipped with essential amenities such as schools, hospitals, and recreational centers, reflect the Commission’s responsiveness to the unique challenges faced by the Niger Delta people.”

“On the education front, Dr Ogbuku’s administration has procured 45,000 U-lesson tablets to be distributed to schools across the region, ensuring that the next generation is equipped with the tools necessary for academic success.”

“This initiative, alongside other entrepreneurship and development programs, underscores the NDDC’s commitment to building a brighter future for the Niger Delta.The Commission has also made significant strides in infrastructure development, including the completion of the 25.7-kilometer Ogbia-Nembe Road in partnership with Shell Petroleum Development Company and the 132KV, Transmission Line in Ondo State. These projects are vital in improving connectivity and access across the region.”

“In the healthcare sector, the NDDC’s Free Health Medical Outreach has provided care to communities across the region. These week-long healthcare programs have brought much-needed medical services to rural communities, demonstrating the Commission’s dedication to enhancing the quality of life in the region.”

“However, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku’s leadership of the NDDC is a beacon of hope for the Niger Delta. His relentless efforts to drive sustainable development, empowering the youths and fostering peace and prosperity are remarkable and it does deserve our commendation as key stakeholders who demands accountability in governance.”

“The Commission remains focused on delivering impactful projects and ensuring that the people of the Niger Delta reap the benefits of the renewed commitment to development.Therefore, we shall continue to appeal for more understanding, collaborations and support from all stakeholders of the Niger delta project in other to enable Dr. Samuel Ogbuku and his management team to succeed.”