NDDC celebrates Dr Samuel Ogbuku at 50

Ememobong Okon, Uyo

For much of its history, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) was associated with controversies. From internal clashes among board members to recurring disputes with supervising government agencies, the commission was often mired in turbulence that hampered its development mission.

That narrative changed in January 2023, when Dr Samuel Ogbuku was appointed as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. In less than two years, he has ushered in a new era of stability, steering the commission away from rancour and into calmer waters.

Today, under his watch, the NDDC is enjoying a controversy-free administration, allowing it to focus squarely on development, transparency, and service delivery to the Niger Delta people.

A life rooted in service

Born in Ayakoro, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Dr. Ogbuku’s journey is a testament to service and resilience. A graduate of the University of Port Harcourt, he holds a B.Sc. in Political and Administrative Studies, a Master’s in Development Studies, and a Ph.D. in Political and Administrative Studies/Development Studies.

Over the years, he has built a career in public service and administration, ranging from Chief of Staff at the Bayelsa State Government House to Senior Special Assistant on Niger Delta Affairs to the Deputy Senate President. Each role sharpened his leadership skills and prepared him for the unique challenges of steering the NDDC.

Thought leadership and the “Rewind to Rebirth” agenda

Beyond public service, Dr. Ogbuku is also a writer and thinker. His recently published book, “Rethinking the Niger Delta”, lays out his vision for transforming the region.

In the book, he introduces what he calls the “Rewind to Rebirth Agenda”—an approach rooted in learning from the Commission’s turbulent past to rebuild for the future.

He identifies past controversies, such as the frequent change of leadership before the end of tenures, constant policy reversals, and project abandonment, as key reasons for the development decay in the commission. His blueprint calls for continuity, stability, and renewed focus to bring meaningful change to the Niger Delta.

Steering the NDDC to progress

Since assuming office, Dr. Ogbuku has championed reforms anchored on transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. His administration successfully secured approval for a ₦1.911 trillion 2024 budget, prioritising the completion of abandoned projects and ensuring that fresh policies are not lost to leadership tussles.

He has also opened the commission to partnerships through Public-Private Participation (PPP), strengthened monitoring systems, and rolled out initiatives like “Lighting Up the Niger Delta,” which earned him the African Public Service Award in Morocco earlier this year.

Yet beyond these milestones, one of his most significant achievements is restoring peace and credibility to an institution long bogged down by crises. Under his leadership, the NDDC has not only stabilised but has also regained public trust and optimism.

A milestone birthday in Ayakoro

Over the weekend, dignitaries from all walks of life gathered in Ayakoro community, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, for a thanksgiving service in commemoration of Dr Ogbuku’s 50th birthday. The event reflected his deep ties to his community and his humility in giving thanks for a milestone that goes beyond personal celebration; it symbolises renewed hope for the Niger Delta.

Ogbuku celebrates his 50th birthday; it is not just a mark of age, but a celebration of vision, leadership, and the promise of a stronger NDDC under his stewardship.