The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has demonstrated its continued commitment to the development of the Niger Delta region and support for state governments, recently contributing to both a high-profile burial and major infrastructure projects.
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, expressed appreciation to the NDDC and its Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for the Commission’s support in ensuring the dignified burial of the late State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo. The burial took place at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Sagbama Local Government Area.
Governor Diri commended, according to a statement by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director, Corporate Affairs, the Commission for partnering with the State Government to ensure the ceremony was conducted with honour and solemnity. “The support of the NDDC contributed significantly to the success of the burial,” he said.
Dr. Ogbuku, who led a delegation including Bayelsa State Representative on the NDDC Board, Senator Dimaro Denyanbofa, and other directors, reiterated the Commission’s commitment to the state during the mourning period. He praised the late Deputy Governor for his outstanding service, particularly as Commissioner for Works in Bayelsa State and as a Senator representing Bayelsa West in the 9th Senate, describing him as a dedicated public servant who excelled in advancing infrastructure development.
Infrastructure milestones in Rivers State
In a parallel demonstration of its development mandate, the NDDC recently commissioned a 9.4-kilometre road network and a 1,500-seater Royal Hall in Ogu, Ogu-Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State. The projects were inaugurated in the presence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, who praised the Commission’s efforts.
“I am impressed by the network of concrete roads with proper drainage. The NDDC has positively impacted the lives of the people of Ogu, thanks to the cooperation between its Managing Director and Executive Director of Finance and Administration,” Wike said. He called on all government agencies to support the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Dr. Ogbuku described the projects as tangible dividends of the Federal Government’s development agenda and highlighted the NDDC’s mission to transform Nigeria’s oil-producing communities. He urged residents of Ogu-Bolo to take ownership of the projects to ensure their sustainability.
The Minister of FCT, Chief NyesomWike cuts the tape to Commission the Royal Hall in Ogu Town, Ogu-Bolo LGA, Rivers State. With him, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku (left); the NDDC Executive Director Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye (2nd right); Minister of State, Petroleum, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri (2nd right) and the Senator Representing Rivers East, Senator Allwell Onyesoh (right).
The road project, covering 9.450 km with reinforced concrete line drains, slabs, and ring culverts, aims to improve connectivity among villages and neighbouring communities, while enhancing socio-economic conditions. The Royal Hall is equipped with modern amenities, including acoustic walls, multiple air conditioners, firefighting equipment, and an efficient public sound system to accommodate large gatherings.
Chief Lawrence Egbelekpeke, Chairman of the Ogu Divisional Council of Chiefs, commended the NDDC Board and Management for the exceptional quality of the projects, describing them as transformative for the local communities.