Tinubu Hails NDDC Boss Ogbuku as Transformational Leader at 50th Birthday
President Bola Tinubu has praised the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, describing him as a transformational leader whose work is driving positive change in the oil-rich Niger Delta region.
Speaking through the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr. Wale Edun, on Tuesday in Abuja, Tinubu said Ogbuku’s leadership has been instrumental in repositioning the commission for accountability and development.
The president made the remarks at a high-profile ceremony marking Ogbuku’s 50th birthday.
“Turning 50 is a golden milestone — a time for gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose. In Dr. Ogbuku’s case, we celebrate not just the years but a life of service, scholarship, and impactful leadership,” Tinubu said.
The president further highlighted the strategic importance of the Niger Delta to Nigeria’s economic and environmental future, describing it as the “economic heartbeat of the nation.” He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reforms centered on transparency, infrastructure, human capital investment, and grassroots empowerment.
The event drew top political and military figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri; Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa; FCT Minister Nyesom Wike; Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa; former Bayelsa State Governor Chief Timipre Sylva; PANDEF Chairman Dr. Godknows Igali; and former NDDC Chairman Timi Alaibe.
In his remarks, Senate President Akpabio commended Ogbuku’s leadership style, noting that he had restored credibility to a commission once dogged by corruption scandals.
“Managing the Niger Delta and the NDDC is no easy task. The commission was once riddled with scandals — contracts awarded in hotels, projects paid for but never executed. So, to celebrate you today is to acknowledge a new era of accountability and results,” Akpabio said. “On behalf of the National Assembly, I say we are proud of you and your achievements.”
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Ogbuku expressed gratitude to his family, mentors, and President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve. He vowed to continue working for the holistic development of the region.
“I’m here today because of the values my parents instilled in me — discipline, hard work, and faith. I am grateful to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and promise to continue doing my best for the holistic development of the Niger Delta,” he said.
He also urged Niger Delta governors to deepen collaboration with the NDDC to accelerate progress and ensure inclusive growth across the region.
“We can only achieve sustainable development through synergy. Together, we can transform the lives of our people,” Ogbuku said.
