The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, has briefed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the progress made by the Commission in completing legacy projects across the Niger Delta region.

Speaking in an interview after meeting with the President at the State House in Abuja, Ogbuku reaffirmed the NDDC’s commitment to translating the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu’s administration into tangible and measurable outcomes.

A statement by NDDCs Director, Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama sated that the NDDC boss attributed the Commission’s success to “the tremendous support of the Presidency,” noting that “President Tinubu has charged us to complete all legacy projects for the benefit of the people of the Niger Delta region.”

According to Ogbuku, the meeting with President Tinubu afforded him the opportunity to highlight the progress made by the NDDC in delivering its mandate, particularly in executing strategic projects across the Niger Delta region.

He said that some of the completed projects included the 650-bed Niger Delta University hotel complex in Amassoma, Bayelsa State and the electrification project in Oron, Akwa Ibom State.

Ogbuku said he extended a formal invitation to Mr President to commission these completed projects as a testament to the Federal Government’s commitment to sustainable development in the region.

Throwing light on the Niger Delta University hostel, the NDDC Chief Executive Officer noted that it would address the chronic shortage of accommodation that had long affected students at NDU.

He said further: “The new hostel will not only provide comfort and security but will also reduce stress, enhance concentration, and boost academic productivity among students who will now reside within the university premises.”

The NDDC Managing Director observed that during his meeting with the President, he restated the Commission’s determination to intensify efforts to align with the Renewed Hope Agenda, adding that “several landmark projects are at advanced stages and will soon be ready for commissioning. These include the Kaa–Ataba Road and Bridge in Rivers State; the Niger Delta Regional Specialist Hospital, Rivers State; the road projects at Ikot Ekpene.”

Ogbuku added: “I also briefed Mr President on the progress we have made in conjunction with the Delta State Government and Chevron Nigeria Limited on the 70.75 km Omadino-Okerenkoko-Escravos Road and bridges in the Warri North Local Government Area.

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has held a sensitisation programme for its stakeholders on policy reform and the digitisation of its procurement system as part of efforts to promote transparency, efficiency and accountability in the Commission.

Speaking during the sensitisation programme in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, the Director, Procurement Department, NDDC, Dr Chuks Osuji, said the initiative was meant to educate key stakeholders, including government officials, procurement officers, consultants and contractors, private-sector vendors, and civil society organisations, on recent reforms and the transition to a fully digitised procurement framework.

He explained: “This effort is part of a broader commitment to modernised procurement practices, which reduces inefficiencies and ensures value for money.”
Osuji appreciated the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, for his good works in the Niger Delta region and for moving the Commission from a manual system to a digitised one.

The Director stated: “Digitisation will make the work easier, you can do your bidding from anywhere, as there will not be a bottleneck as in the manual process. It will end nepotism, bureaucracy, and illegality in the process.”

Osuji urged consultants and contractors to take the process seriously, as the NDDC was using the programme to train them on the digitised procurement system.

The facilitator and Head of Procurement, Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa State, Mrs Comfort Taavaan-Ogolo, emphasised that the reform was designed to align procurement processes with global best practices while addressing longstanding challenges such as delays, nepotism, lack of transparency and limited access to information.

She also stated that digitisation of the procurement system will enhance competitiveness and provide a level playing field for all participants, as the reform was not just about technology but about building trust, improving service delivery, and strengthening Institutional integrity.

Participants were introduced to the features of the electronic procurement platform, including online bid submission, real-time tracking of procurement activities, and improved data management systems.

The Supreme Egbesu Assembly (SEA) has instituted a legal action against the Federal Government and the National Assembly over longstanding demands for the creation of additional local government areas in Bayelsa State and control of natural resources in Ijaw territory.

In a press statement issued on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, the group said the move followed the failure of the authorities to respond to its earlier demands within a 21-day ultimatum.

“Recall that on 12th February 2026, we did inform you that we have written to the National Assembly and the Federal Government on the need for the creation of additional 24 Local Government Areas in Bayelsa State as well as the control of our God given natural resources in the Ijaw territory,” the statement read.

“We promised that if the National and /or Federal Government does not respond to these age-long demands we were going to seek legal actions to address our demands. We gave a time frame of twenty-one days for them to respond to us, we got no response!”

The SEA disclosed that the matter is now before the Federal High Court in Yenagoa, where the first hearing of the suits with cash file FHC/YNG/CS/63/2026 has already taken place.

“Today the Supreme Egbesu Assembly (SEA) has kept to its promise. We instituted an action at the Federal High Court Yenagoa against the National Assembly and the Federal Government after the expiration of the 21 days. Today we were in court for the first hearing of both cases,” it stated.

The group stressed that agitation for more LGAs in Bayelsa predates the state’s creation, accusing the National Assembly of failing to act despite the state meeting constitutional requirements.

“We note that the discussion for the creation of additional local government areas for Bayelsa state is as old as the creation of the State itself,” the statement added.

“We have over the years call on the Federal Government particularly the National Assembly over the deliberate refusal to deliberate, approved and amend the relevant provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) inspite of the state fulfilling the requirements in line with the Constitution.”
Describing the current structure as unjust, the group said: “We note that there is no where in any democracy where a state is limited to just 8 LGAs: more pathetic is the fact that Bayelsa State is an oil bearing State.”

According to the SEA, the state’s 24 Rural Development Authorities could be converted into full-fledged local government areas to promote equity and development.

“Bayelsa State presently has twenty four Rural Development Authorities (RDA) which can be easily converted to Local Government areas thereby making the State eligible to participate in the sharing of allocation and the development of their areas for the purpose of justice and equity,” it said.

On resource control, the group described the suit as a continuation of a long-standing struggle.

“We wish to inform that our suit on Resource Control is a revival of our age long agitation,” the statement noted.

“Nigeria can no longer operate a system where contributors to the national coffers are not in charge of their resources.”

Drawing historical parallels, the SEA argued that regions previously managed their resources and contributed to the national purse.

“In the earlier Republic in this country, we see where the owners of the resources, e.g, groundnut and cocoa, manage their own resources and contributes certain percentage to the national coffers. That was the way it was.”

The group maintained that legal action was necessary to secure economic justice for the Ijaw people.

“We have therefore chosen to take this legal step for our people. The Ijaw Nation must be free from all economic strangulation carried out against them by successive Governments,” it added.

The SEA also called for solidarity among Ijaw communities and other stakeholders.

“We call on all Ijaws to be steadfast and resolute, and continue to support the process by attending all court sessions. Your solidary is very vital at this point of time in our history.”

“We are also calling on other Ijaw organizations, communities, Niger Delta people / organizations and all people of goodwill to join us in this march to control and manage our despoiled and mismanaged natural resources.

Lagos stood still in honour of one of its most respected political leaders and grassroots mobilizers, Alhaji Mutiu Lawal-Are, as dignitaries, party stakeholders, artisans, religious leaders, and admirers gathered in large numbers to celebrate his birthday in a grand style marked by special prayers, funfair, philanthropy, and heartfelt encomiums.

The event was more than a birthday celebration; it was a powerful testament to the enduring influence, political relevance, and goodwill that Alhaji Mutiu Lawal-Are has built over the years through service, loyalty, humility, and unwavering commitment to the growth of Lagos State and progressive politics.

The occasion attracted prominent personalities across political and social circles, including the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) of Lagos State, Barrister ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin; the Deputy State Chairman of the APC in Lagos State, Honorable Moshood Maiyegun; the Executive Chairman of Lagos Island East LCDA, Hon. Muibi Alade Folawiyo (Pepper); Lagos APC Youth Leader, Dr. Muritala Seriki; distinguished lawmaker Senator Wasiu Eshilokun; and Lagos APC Woman Leader, Alhaja Iyabosola Eletu, among many other notable stakeholders.

Also present were leaders of political groups, artisans’ associations, religious leaders, community stakeholders, and loyal supporters, all united in celebrating a man widely regarded as a pillar of grassroots politics and progressive governance.

In his remarks, Dr. Seyi Bamgbade, Convener, emphasized why leaders who have made sacrifices for the people should be celebrated while they are alive.
According to him, “We must continue to honour our leaders at all times, especially those whose lives have been devoted to service, mentorship, and uplifting others. Alhaji Mutiu Lawal-Are represents commitment, political stability, and compassion for the people.”

One of the major highlights of the celebration was the presentation of scholarships to 50 students, a gesture that underscored the celebrant’s enduring passion for education, youth empowerment, and human capital development. The scholarship initiative was widely applauded as a reflection of his generous spirit and legacy of giving back to society.

Guests described Alhaji Mutiu Lawal-Are as a rare breed of leader—an administrator of substance, a dependable political strategist, a bridge-builder, and a compassionate statesman whose impact transcends politics.

Speaker after speaker poured encomiums on the celebrant, describing him as a man of honour, discipline, and uncommon dedication to the progressive cause. Many noted that his political journey has remained defined by loyalty, integrity, and service to humanity.

The atmosphere was filled with joy, prayers, cultural displays, music, and celebration, turning the event into a carnival of gratitude and recognition.
Indeed, the massive turnout and calibre of personalities in attendance confirmed one undeniable fact: Alhaji Mutiu Lawal-Are is not merely celebrated because of age, but because of value, influence, and legacy.

As Lagos paid glowing tribute to this illustrious son and leader, the celebration reinforced a timeless truth — great leaders are not only remembered for the positions they hold, but for the lives they touch.

For Alhaji Mutiu Lawal-Are, this birthday was not just a celebration of another year, but a celebration of a life of purpose, service, and enduring relevance.

*Happy Birthday to a true grassroots icon, political colossus, and worthy ambassador of progressive ideals.*

The Ministry of Regional Development, the Regional Development Commissions and the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, have resolved to enhance collaboration to bridge development gaps and prevent project abandonment.

In a communique issued at the end of the three-day retreat organised by the Ministry of Regional Development in Benin, Edo State, they agreed to work in synergy with all stakeholders across their regions and the nation at large.

A statement by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director, Corporate Affairs noted that the retreat, chaired by the Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh was attended by top government officials, including heads of various development commissions, the Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, the Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, and other members of the board.

Presenting the communiqué, the Director of Planning and Research, Ministry of Regional Development, Mr Victor Ewache, outlined key action points agreed upon by participants, including a review of the Commissions’ Establishment Acts and the adoption of a draft National Policy on Regional Development.

He noted that discussions centred on “Generating Fresh Ideas to Unlock the Potentials of the Regions,” including leveraging international partners (such as UNDP) for funding and adhering to Treasury Single Account (TSA) regulations.

According to him, it was resolved that the commission’s leadership will sign a performance bond to ensure effectiveness, with a focus on delivering tangible projects that reduce poverty.

Ewache stated that the draft National Policy on Regional Development had been unveiled, and that plans were underway to review the commissions’ Establishment Acts to strengthen performance.

The communique stated that “projects are to be prioritised based on strategic infrastructure investments aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

Earlier in his closing remarks, the Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh described the deliberations as robust and focused on strategic areas critical to enhancing the performance of the Regional Development Commissions in line with their mandates.

He emphasised that, given the quality of expert contributions at the retreat, it was imperative for all Commissions to strictly adhere to the provisions of their establishment Acts. The Minister further disclosed that steps would be taken to review the Commissions’ establishment Acts to address identified gaps and strengthen institutional performance.

As part of the closing ceremonies, the Minister of Regional Development, Engr Momoh and the NDDC Managing Director were given awards for “outstanding development and impact” by the Association of Edo Youths for Peace.

Presenting the awards to Momoh and Ogbuku, the Chairman of the Youth Association, Dr Aminu Imafidor, described them as dynamic and transformational leaders.

The Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh has charged the Regional Development Commissions and the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, to collaborate more in the execution of regional projects.

Momoh gave the charge during a three-day retreat organised by the Ministry of Regional Development for the Regional Development Commissions in Benin, Edo State, with the theme: “Generating Fresh Ideas to Unlock the Potentials of the Regions.”

The leadership of the Development Commissions, including the Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Mr Chiedu Ebie, the Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku and other members of the board, were at the retreat.

The Minister said the establishment of the development Commissions by the administration of President Bola Tinubu reflected an institutional commitment to the coordinated, targeted transformation of the regions through the revitalisation of critical infrastructure.

Momoh reiterated that the establishment of Regional Development Commissions was borne out of the recognition that our country’s prosperity must be broad-based, addressing peculiar developmental challenges of each region and harnessing their unique potentials.

The Minister emphasised the importance of cooperation and said, “For an organisation to excel, its leadership must show the way, and the people behind them must be ready to cooperate.”

Momoh challenged the Development Commissions to be diligent and align their vision with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Minister expressed optimism that the regions would begin to see significant strides in infrastructure development and impactful projects to address people’s needs.

Momoh stressed that in carrying out their responsibilities, transparency, accountability, and due process must remain the watchword for the Commissions.

The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, observed that the retreat would strengthen regional development and ensure that the Federal Government’s vision of balanced, inclusive, and sustainable growth across all regions of Nigeria was realised.

The Governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, described the Commissions as instruments through which the Renewed Hope covenant of Mr President with Nigerians will be felt at the grassroots level.

Okpebholo urged the Development Commissions to deliver projects that address people’s needs and lift families out of poverty. “Above all, work in harmony with your Boards, stakeholders, and the supervising Ministry to ensure that no effort is wasted, the governor charged.”

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Regional Development, Dr Mary Ogbe, also emphasised the importance of the retreat, stating: “This retreat is not just about procedures and processes; it is about aligning your vision with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President and the policy direction of the Ministry.”

She stated that the performance of the Development Commissions would be judged by the lives they touch, the communities they uplift, and the opportunities they create in their regions.

In his presentation entitled: “Understanding Public Procurement: Procedures, Procurement methods/procedures and Approval Thresholds,” the Chairman of FCT Civil Service Commission, Engr. Emeka Ezeh, noted that procurement was a tool for good governance and a mechanism to fight corruption.

Seledi Thompson-Wakama

Director, Corporate Affairs