The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has dismissed as false and malicious a report by online news platform, Sahara Reporters, alleging misuse of funds and delays in the execution of its projects.

According to a statement signed by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director of Corporate Affairs, the Commission described the publication as “misleading, unverified, and designed to tarnish the image of the NDDC and its management.”

The report, published on September 25 under the headline “NDDC Projects Drag in Niger Delta as Tinubu Government Fails to Publish Commission’s Audit Report”, claimed that the Commission spent ₦5 billion on the 50th birthday of its Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku. The NDDC clarified that the event was privately sponsored by Ogbuku’s friends and associates, with the highlight being the launch of two books, not a lavish celebration.

It further stressed that project execution in the Niger Delta has not stalled. On the contrary, the Commission pointed to numerous recent achievements, including the inauguration of the 9.6km Abraka-Oben Road in Delta State, the 7.3km Oyigbo Road network in Rivers, the 23.7km Ndoro-Ntalakwu Road in Abia, and the 7.8km Eziama-Abba-Owerre Nkworji Road in Imo. Other notable projects include the ultra-modern NDDC offices in Calabar and Yenagoa, road networks in multiple states, and training centres for farmers and youths.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, pledging to continue delivering transformative infrastructure and human-capacity projects across the Niger Delta.

It urged the public to disregard “falsehoods designed to derail progress,” insisting that its focus remains on development, not distractions.

The Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, for its significant strides in delivering basic infrastructure across the Niger Delta region.

The Minister, who spoke during a stakeholders’ engagement forum on Environmental Impact Assessment, EIA, in Port Harcourt, for proposed road projects in Rivers State, lauded the NDDC’s commitment to sustainable development and its efforts towards addressing the long-standing infrastructural gaps in Niger Delta communities.

The forum, held in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Rivers State Ministry of Environment, focused on three critical projects: The construction of a 4 km Bonny Internal Road in Degema and Bonny Local Government Areas; the construction of Luebe-Agbani -Lueku Road in Khana LGA; and the construction of 6 km Egelebia Road, Phase 2, in George-Ama, Okrika LGA.

The Minister, represented by an Environmental and Chemical Engineer in the Ministry of Environment, Engr. Manji Justine, extolled the NDDC for subjecting the proposed projects to the provisions of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act, before commencement.

He said, “We are not here to stop the project but to ensure it aligns with environmental laws to protect the future and guarantee sustainability. Once approval is granted, the Ministry, along with the state government and affected communities, will monitor the projects through baseline data collection and post-construction site assessments.”

He highlighted the importance of incorporating proper drainage systems to mitigate flooding and stressed the need for covered drainage channels in residential areas to prevent waste dumping and blockages.

According to him, “The NDDC has taken a bold and commendable step by addressing road infrastructure gaps that have long affected these communities. Every identified impact in the EIA process must have a mitigation strategy.”

The NDDC Director II, Environmental Protection and Control, Engr. Aniefiok Iniokut, said the forum aimed to provide a platform for engagement between the Commission, the Ministry, and the affected communities before project commencement.

“It’s only through such engagements that we can understand the full social and environmental implications of these projects. The feedback so far shows overwhelming community support and a clear understanding of the project’s benefits,” he said.

He noted that the forum confirmed no objections from the communities and that the positive impacts significantly outweigh the negatives.

He assured stakeholders that the NDDC would ensure the successful completion of the projects.
Head of the Dokube Royal House in Okrika, Chief Godknows Tam-George, expressed appreciation to the NDDC and its Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for initiating the projects.

“For years, Egedeme lacked basic infrastructure. Within a short period under the current NDDC leadership, we’ve received a 2km road, a 6km road, and a water project. These are life-changing developments,” he said.

In his speech, the Paramount Ruler of Baa-Lueku, Chief Samson Barilugbene Obrien, praised the project’s potential to enhance economic opportunities.

“This road will bridge the gap between our community and others. It will open up access for trade, ease transportation, and serve as a vital link to Akwa Ibom via Aba,” he noted.

In her remarks, the NDDC Deputy Director, Environmental Protection and Control, Dr. Mrs. Ukpe Eno, underscored the importance of stakeholder engagement in driving sustainable development.

A total of 180 women entrepreneurs from across the Niger Delta region have commenced a business development training programme organised by the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, in collaboration with the Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria (SWAN), Port Harcourt Chapter.

Speaking during the commencement of the training at the NDDC Event Centre in Port Harcourt, the Commission’s Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said the programme was designed to strengthen the capacity of women-led businesses, improve financial literacy and promote economic independence among women in the region.

Ogbuku, who was represented by the NDDC Executive Director, Projects, Dr Victor Antai, stated that empowering women has a ripple effect that benefits families, communities, and the nation.

He noted: “When you empower a woman, you empower the family, and by extension, the nation. That is why the NDDC management graciously approved this programme. Since the inception of this administration, there has been relative peace in the Niger Delta. I am sure that before you complete this training, you will learn something beneficial that will impact your business.”

He urged the participants to take advantage of the opportunity to improve themselves.
Also speaking at the event, the NDDC Director 2, Commercial and Industrial Development, Mr Friday Ehiorobe, said that the training was part of the Commission’s efforts to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s initiative to support entrepreneurs and develop local capacity.

“We are here today to teach you bookkeeping and how to manage your businesses. This training is possible because the MD/CEO, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, is deeply committed to the well-being of men, women and youths, especially from the Niger Delta. Today, our focus is on women who run micro, small, and medium enterprises,” he said.

Ehiorobe urged the participants to take the training seriously, assuring them that the skills acquired would enhance the sustainability and profitability of their businesses.

In her remarks, the Chairperson of the Society of Women Accountants of Nigeria, Port Harcourt Chapter Mrs. Isioma Onwo, , said the training curriculum was developed to equip participants with practical skills in bookkeeping, financial literacy, tax awareness, and the use of accounting tools such as Excel and QuickBooks.

“By the end of our time together, you will be able to confidently keep proper records and gain insight into key areas that support the sustainability of your businesses,” she said.

South-South Coordinator of the Reserved Seats for Women bill Campaign, Ebi Timi Alaibe Elezieanya on Monday joined other prominent women leaders from the South-South and across Nigeria to intensify advocacy for the passage of the Reserved Seats for Women Bill currently before the National Assembly.

Alaibe Elezieanya who is the Daughter of a political stalwart and former Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Chairman, Chief Timi Alaibe, maintained that the proposed legislation will without a doubt guarantee more opportunities for women in political leadership, policymaking, and national development.

On Monday, Nigeria’s drive toward gender-inclusive governance gained further push as the National assembly hosted a public hearing in Abuja.

Speaking to our correspondent in Abuja, Alaibe Elezieanya emphasized that Nigerian women are neither powerless nor passive, but are deliberately excluded from spaces where decisions shaping the country are made.

Alaibe Elezieanya, who stands out as a foremost voice in championing women’s inclusion, pointed out that consultations across South-South states revealed overwhelming support for the bill, with women at the grassroots level recognizing its potential to deliver economic empowerment, stronger education systems, improved healthcare, and more accountable governance.

According to the South-South coordinator the bill is a critical response to gender imbalance in governance and a step toward strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

“Women are ready to lead, not as competitors with men, but as partners in progress. The Reserved Seats Bill is not just about representation, it is about transforming governance to reflect the realities and aspirations of half of Nigeria’s population,” she said.

Elezieanya urged lawmakers in the 10th National Assembly to make history by passing the bill, which has previously failed in the 8th and 9th Assemblies.

“We are pleading with our fathers and uncles in parliament to hear the cry of Nigerian women. This is a defining moment. Nigeria must get it right,” she emphasized.

Meanwhile, further reflecting on recent zonal public hearings, Elezieanya described the South-South women’s turnout as “enthusiastic and united.” She noted that commissioners, councillors, and civil society groups across the south south are strongly in support and have thrown their weight behind the bill in full support.

Ebi Alaibe Elezieanya has become a prominent advocate in the region, mobilizing grassroots women, engaging lawmakers, and consistently amplifying the need for equitable representation.

Other prominent leaders, including Mrs. Susan Lokpobiri, wife of the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Oil, and Barrister Ebi Ogionwo of the NCWS, echoed her views, stressing that the bill is critical to dismantling barriers that have long sidelined women from politics.

They urged lawmakers to demonstrate courage as the decisive vote in October approaches, insisting that passing the bill would strengthen democracy, honor Nigeria’s international commitments, and secure women’s place at the decision-making table.

Today marked a unique and historic moment in the sports history of Lagos State as the APC Lagos State Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, officially pre-unveiled the APC Lagos State Chairman’s Cup. The tournament, which promises to unite communities across the state and showcase grassroots talent, was received with excitement and enthusiasm.

The event graced by the Lagos State Conference 57 Executive —under the leadership of their Chairman of Chairmen, Hon. Abdullahi Susan Olowa, the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government. who also doubles as the tournament L.O.C  Co – Chairman.

In his remarks, Pastor Ojelabi expressed gratitude to the organisers for bestowing such prestige upon him with the tournament’s title. He described the recognition as a profound honour and pledged his full support to ensure the successful hosting of the championship.

Speaking on behalf of the 57 chairmen, Hon. Abdullahi Susan Olowa applauded the inclusiveness of the initiative, noting that the tournament would create an avenue to discover and nurture raw talent at the grassroots level—the true constituency of local government leaders. He further pledged that the chairmen would not only support the tournament but also actively participate in its Local Organising Committee.

Secretary of the ruling party in Lagos State, Hon. Dr. Adeola Jokomba, in his goodwill message, expressed appreciation to the APC Chairman and the Conference 57 executives for embracing the project wholeheartedly.

The APC Lagos State Chairman’s Cup is set to be more than just a sporting event—it is a platform for engage 5 Million Lagosians , ensuring PVC registration, inclusiveness, and youth empowerment across Lagos State, with the promise of identifying future stars from the grassroots. He said.

The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) has honoured Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, as the Best Governor on Local Government Reforms in Nigeria.

NULGE President, Comrade Aliyu Kankara, presented the award to the governor in Yenagoa during a conference on “Promoting Local Government Workers’ Welfare: The Bayelsa Model.”

Comrade Kankara said Governor Diri’s achievements include transforming the local government system in the state through the introduction of fiscal policy reforms that repositioned the third tier of government for better service delivery, staff welfare, regular promotions and financial benefits.

A statement by, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Daniel Alabrah notes that the NULGE president said implementation of N80,000 minimum wage for council workers and an additional 25 and 30 per cent salary increase as well as the government’s support to councils in the payment of primary schools teachers salary were some of the heartwarming testimonies of the union members.

He described as unprecedented the governor’s timely payment of pensions and gratuities to local government retirees, saying Bayelsa was the first state in the country to pay retirement entitlements immediately after service.

He said: “The Governor of Bayelsa State has excelled where many other state governors have failed in human capital development by prioritising the welfare of workers in the state, particularly those at the grassroots level.

“From available information, Governor Diri’s administration has paid over N20 billion as arrears of gratuity to retired workers in Bayelsa State since he was sworn in in 2020.”

National President of the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), Dr. Kabir Sani, also appreciated the governor for improving the lives of local government workers in the state, including those from his union.

Governor Douye Diri, in his remarks, said regular payment of salaries to workers and gratuity to retirees were part of the reasons he was elected and should not be celebrated.

He revealed that he was initially accused of attempting to score cheap political points for doing the right thing in offsetting the backlog of gratuities, which dated back to 2007.

Governor Diri said the challenges he met on assuming office necessitated the reforms as several of the councils had huge financial deficits and relied on the state government for bailouts.

He said his vision for government at all levels was to secure the livelihood of the people, enhance food availability and generate more revenue.

He restated his directive to council chairmen to embark on farming in areas of comparative advantage in order to boost food supply in the state.
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His words: “The moment you retire at 60 or 65 years, you become a senior citizen and you are entitled to your gratuity. In other climes, it is taken for granted. Therefore we should not celebrate it.

“Initially, some persons queried it when I started immediately paying gratuities. They said previous administrations did not pay.

“I reminded such critics that my father was a teacher, a headmaster. If not for the opportunity of a child like me, he would have died without his pensions and gratuity.

“Having that at the back of my mind, one of the priorities I had was to ensure that the backlog of gratuities were cleared. I recall a particular month we had a windfall in our allocation, I directed the payment of N7 billion for gratuity and pensions.”

He commended his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, for effective supervision of the councils and for ensuring a proper implementation of the reforms.

In a welcome address, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Thompson Amule, said before the Diri administration, only four councils managed to regularly pay salaries while the others were insolvent and had months of outstanding salary arrears, pensions, gratuity and death benefits.
Amule also stated that workers promotion was stagnated for more than five years but that the present administration swiftly introduced fiscal reforms to engender financial security in the system.

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, the chairman of Kolokuma/Opokuma council, Mr. Lelei Tariye, said the local government system in the state was working because the government adhered strictly to autonomy for the councils even before the Supreme Court judgement.

Highpoint of the event was the symbolic presentation of N12 billion cheques to over 1000 retirees across the eight local government areas.

A Royal Celebration: A Birthday Tribute to His Royal Eminence, King Nwachukwu Obi III

On this momentous occasion, we gather to celebrate the illustrious life and reign of the revered Oba of Ogbaland, Rivers State. As Your Royal Eminence marks another year of life, we pray that the wisdom of the Almighty continues to guide you. “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:6).

May your path be illuminated with the light of righteousness and uprightness, as “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people” (Proverbs 14:34). Your leadership and wisdom have been a beacon of hope and inspiration to your people.

My King, my classmate, my friend, and my brother, I pray that God grants you good health, strength, and divine guidance. May your reign be filled with peace, prosperity, and joy, as you continue to lead your people with wisdom and integrity.

Over 40 years ago, at such a tender age, you displayed an uncanny sense of justice, wisdom, and fairness, and today, we see that blossom into a great monarch you are.

Many happy returns, Your Royal Eminence! May your legacy continue to inspire and uplift your people, and may your name be forever etched in the annals of history as a great leader of an illustrious kingdom.

With love, best wishes, and profound respect,
Ono K. Akpe
DG, Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has emphasised the importance of alternative dispute resolution in promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity in the workplace.

The Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, stated this during a Sensitisation Programme with the theme: “Promoting Transparency and Due Process in the Workplace: Deploying Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Approaches in Building a Culture of Accountability and Integrity” organised by the Commission’s Department of Dispute and Conflict Resolution in Port Harcourt.

Ogbuku, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Rev. Julius Oworibo, noted: “I am impressed by the quality and timeliness of this programme. ADR is a critical tool in achieving a lot in the Commission. Transparency entails being open about how decisions are made in the workplace. Through due process, the rights of staff are protected and trust is fostered in the Commission. The ADR mechanisms can be used to reduce tension in the workplace. These mechanisms include mediation and facilitation, amongst others.

“Over time, this approach fosters a workplace where integrity, fairness, and trust are the norm and are at the forefront of fulfilling our mandate in the region. Employees begin to trust that issues are handled openly and fairly. Do not forget that we are a team. To make a difference, fairness must be established across the board. ADR is not just about solving problems; it is ensuring that these are a part of our everyday work life,” he noted.

In his remarks, the NDDC’s Acting Director of Dispute and Conflict Resolution, Barrister Godwin Ogedegbe, reiterated that alternative dispute resolution was critical to achieving the Commission’s vision.

He stated: “The theme of this programme captures the core of what we seek to achieve in our Commission: a workplace where every action is expected to be guided by openness, fairness, and a steadfast commitment to due process. Where conflicts are not merely resolved, but prevented through structured, principled processes; and where accountability and integrity are not aspirational ideals but everyday practice.”

In his keynote presentation, the Founder of the Centre for Constitutionalism and Demilitarisation, CENCOD, Professor Sylvester Odion-Akhaine, underlined the importance of due process in the workplace.

He noted: “The importance of due process, transparency, integrity, and accountability in the workplace cannot be overemphasised. It is healthy for productivity and achievement of organisational goals. For workplace ethics to blossom, it requires ethical leadership that leads by example and employees with work engagement character who are not afraid to communicate honest advice to management.”

The Director, Centre for Politics, University of Port Harcourt, Professor Fidelis Allen, highlighted the effectiveness of ADR while speaking on the subtheme: “Strengthening Organisational Governance for Transparency and Accountability: Integrating Alternative Dispute Resolution in Workplace Conflict Management.”

“ADR enhances transparent and accountable governance within organisations by promoting open dialogue, fostering a culture of responsibility, and implementing accountability protocols. These approaches ensure that disputes are resolved efficiently and equitably, with mutually agreed-upon outcomes that are more likely to be adhered to by all parties involved,” he noted.

In his own presentation on the subtheme “Promoting Ethical Standards and Institutional Integrity,” the Chief Executive Officer of the Dispute Resolution Academy, Dr Olugbenga Gbarada, noted that institutions such as the NDDC should uphold fairness by building strong systems. At the same time, leaders foster trust through ethical conduct. These, he said, create the foundation for ADR to “become a bridge toward inclusive governance, ethical decision-making, and lasting peace.”

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has affirmed its commitment to regional development through inclusive dialogue and transparency in the implementation of projects across the Niger Delta region.

The NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku stated this during a stakeholders meeting on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in Warri, Delta State.

A statement by NDDCs Director, Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama said that Ogbuku, who was represented by the Deputy Director of Environmental Protection and Control, Mr. Oscar Gbayisemore, noted that sustainable development must go hand-in-hand with environmental protection. He called for deeper collaboration with stakeholders during project implementation.

The NDDC Chief Executive Officer further highlighted the synergy between the NDDC and the relevant ministries at both federal and state levels, reiterating the Commission’s commitment to adhering to environmental standards and regulatory guidelines.

In his remarks, the EIA consultant, Mr. Daniel George, underscored the importance of early and meaningful engagement with community leaders. He urged them to take ownership of the projects, stressing that local support and cooperation are essential for long-term project success and sustainability.

The President-General of the Ibrede clan (Ndokwa East LGA), Chief Charles Ighogbefai lauded the NDDC for being the “only glimmer of hope” for the people of the Ibrede community. He described the road project as a critical enabler of economic transformation, especially with the area’s potential in the Blue Economy, cash crops farming, and the recent surge in oil exploration.

“Over 30 communities across the Isoko region will benefit from this road”, he said, urging the Commission to expedite the execution of the project.

The Vice President of Owhelogbo community, Mr Ekaba Augustine, addressed the long-standing issues of neglect by the past administration. He noted that the proposed roads would link the Delta South and Delta Central senatorial districts, boosting economic trade and productivity. He highlighted the current hardships faced by farmers and traders due to poor road conditions, calling on the NDDC to ensure the quality execution of the project, given the swampy terrain of the region.

Also speaking at the event, Delta State Commissioner of Environment, Mr. Jamani Tommy Ejiro, represented by Mrs.Ekpenisi Thelma, pledged support of the Delta State government to the NDDC and project contractors. She appealed to the Commission to act swiftly to ease the suffering of the communities affected by inadequate road infrastructure.

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) covered Agbigborodo community in Warri North Local Government Area, Iberede-Iyadeame-Onogbor-Aboh in Ndokwa East LGA and Orogun-Imodje Okori communities in Delta State.