Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its developmental strides over the past 25 years.
He described the agency as a key institution that has positively impacted the Niger Delta region.
The governor gave the commendation on Sunday during a special thanksgiving service held at St. Thomas Anglican Church, Akure, to mark the Commission’s silver jubilee.
Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed pride that the symbolic celebration was taking place in Akure, the Ondo State capital.
He acknowledged the presence of the NDDC Board and top management, led by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Chief Samuel Ogbuku.
“We, the good people of Ondo State, particularly those in the oil-producing areas of Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas, deeply appreciate the Commission’s achievements and contributions to the development of the Niger Delta region over the past 25 years,” the governor said.
He praised the NDDC’s leadership for its commitment to delivering impactful projects and recalled his personal contribution as a former member of the Commission’s Board from 2018 to 2019.
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Aiyedatiwa noted that the NDDC has continued to grow and make meaningful contributions to the region’s development.
The governor also lauded the efforts of the state representatives on the NDDC Board and within the Commission’s management, saying their work has brought tangible benefits to the state.
Highlighting state-level interventions, Aiyedatiwa pointed to the significant reforms and progress made by the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC).
According to him, the agency has been repositioned to address the ecological and infrastructural needs of oil-producing communities effectively.
Aiyedatiwa also used the occasion to appreciate President Bola Tinubu for his support for the development of the Niger Delta and his efforts to ensure accountability and effectiveness within the NDDC.
He urged the Commission to continually align its projects with the specific needs of local communities, stressing the importance of collaboration between the NDDC and state governments to unlock the region’s full potential.
Earlier, the Bishop of the Akure Anglican Diocese, Rt. Revd Simon Borokini, delivered a sermon reminding public officials of their responsibility to serve with integrity, noting that everyone would eventually give account of their stewardship before God.
The NDDC Managing Director, Samuel Ogbuku, in his remarks, reiterated the agency’s commitment to purposeful and transparent development, highlighting the Commission’s impact over the past 25 years.
The thanksgiving service was attended by government officials, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and key stakeholders from across the Niger Delta.
The celebration continued with a reception at the International Culture and Events Centre (The Dome) in Akure.
