The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reiterated its commitment to completing abandoned legacy projects across the region, marking a renewed focus on infrastructural development as part of its 25th-anniversary milestone.
Speaking at a world press conference in Asaba, Delta State, on Monday, NDDC Managing Director, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, emphasized that the commission’s current mandate centers on reviving stalled and abandoned projects that hold strategic value for the region.
Ogbuku explained that while the commission faces constraints due to existing contractual agreements, efforts are being made to re-engage contractors and work collaboratively to complete projects. Where necessary, he noted, the NDDC is prepared to assume full responsibility for such projects in order to ensure timely completion.
“The NDDC is not in a position to unilaterally terminate contracts due to legal frameworks such as the Procurement Act, which could lead to litigation,” he said. “However, we are reaching out to contractors and intervention agencies to either partner with us or relinquish control so that we can finish the work.”
The NDDC boss also addressed earlier concerns from the International Oil Companies (IOCs), noting that their discontent stemmed from a lack of project implementation in operational areas. He disclosed that this issue has since been resolved, with IOCs now actively involved in the commission’s budgeting process.
“They are now contributing projects in their host communities and collaborating with us,” Ogbuku stated. “We’re working jointly with Chevron and the Delta State Government on infrastructure projects like bridge construction, and engagement has been ongoing.”
According to Ogbuku, increased cooperation from oil companies and state governments has also led to improved funding from the Federal Government, further boosting the commission’s capacity to deliver on its development agenda.
In his welcome address, Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Barr. Chiedu Ebie, pledged a renewed focus on accountability and stakeholder engagement.
“We are committed to executing our responsibilities with sincerity and transparency. We appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s trust in appointing us to serve,” Ebie said.
The press conference forms part of a broader outreach initiative to mark NDDC’s 25 years of existence, with a focus on stakeholder partnerships and the completion of legacy projects to drive regional growth.
