The Managing Director and CEO of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to prioritizing and completing critical legacy projects across the Niger Delta, emphasizing prudence, partnerships, and purposeful planning over populist moves.
This was laden in a compelling address that blended sincerity with strategic clarity.
Speaking on Monday, July 7, 2025, during a World Press conference at the Dome Event Centre in Asaba, Delta State, Chief Ogbuku, flanked by Mr. Chiedu Ebie, Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board; Hon. Alabo Boma Iyaye, Executive Director of Finance and Administration; and Mr. Victor Antai, Executive Director of Projects, made it clear that the era of haphazard project execution is over.
“When you talk about cancellation of projects, you don’t just wake up and start issuing stop orders,” the NDDC boss asserted.
“There are legal and contractual frameworks to consider, abandoned projects often come with valid payment certificates and complex variations. You must understand the Procurement Act to appreciate the implications.”
Ogbuku emphasized the importance of prioritization, noting that with only about four dry months annually, November to February, construction must be strategically planned.
“You cannot spread yourself too thin. That’s why we are channeling our limited funds into high-impact legacy projects that will genuinely transform communities,” he said.
Highlighting recent success stories, he pointed to the long-abandoned Okrika-Orokri Road and Bridge project awarded in 2012.
“Today, that project is back on track through a strategic partnership with NLNG. The contractor has been mobilized to site.
“The same applies to the Bonny Ring Road, the Caidabai Bridge, and the Okitikpukpan electrification project. These were once forgotten, but the people are now smiling again, that’s the impact we seek.”
He noted that while many projects remain on the books, the Commission is adopting a realistic and transparent approach.
“We will not deceive you. I will not sit here and promise that we will complete half of the outstanding projects that would be dishonest. But I assure you, the critical ones we’ve identified will be completed, especially through partnerships.”
In a region long plagued by stalled infrastructure and abandoned hopes, the NDDC’s shift in focus is a welcome breath of fresh air.
Chief Ogbuku’s speech carried a tone of responsibility and realism, underscored by a promise to ensure that the Commission’s limited resources are not wasted but invested wisely.
“Our directive is clear, complete old, abandoned legacy projects. Billions have already been spent on some of them. It’s only fair and right that we return to those sites and deliver value. The people of the Niger Delta deserve nothing less.”
With strategic partnerships, efficient resource deployment, and a strong commitment to legacy transformation, the NDDC is charting a new course, one that places lasting impact above empty promises.
