The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has lauded the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its achievements over the past 25 years, commending the agency for its developmental strides across the Niger Delta region.
He gave the commendation on Sunday, during a Thanksgiving Service held at the St. Thomas Anglican Church, Akure, to commemorate the silver jubilee of the Commission’s establishment.
Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed special delight that the symbolic thanksgiving service was being held in Akure, the Ondo State capital, and acknowledged the presence of the NDDC Board and top management, led by its Managing Director/CEO, 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, acknowledge the Commission’s works, achievements and contributions to the development of the Niger Delta region in the last 25 years,” the governor said.
He described the Commission as a key institution that has lived up to its mandate and commended its current leadership for its dedication to project conception, implementation, and completion.
Reflecting on his brief tenure as a member of the NDDC Board from 2018 to 2019, Governor Aiyedatiwa said he was proud to have contributed to the Commission’s mission and noted with satisfaction the continuing growth and impact of the agency.
He particularly appreciated the contributions of Ondo State’s representatives on the NDDC Board and management, describing their efforts as yielding remarkable benefits for the State.
Highlighting the efforts of his administration at the state level, the Governor spotlighted the performance of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), which he said has been reformed and repositioned to effectively meet the ecological and infrastructural needs of the State’s oil-producing communities.
“Through OSOPADEC, we have implemented projects that have improved the lives of our people, enhanced our environment, and promoted economic growth.
“Our interventions have led to significant improvements in healthcare, education, and infrastructure in Ilaje and Ese-Odo LGAs. Our people are beginning to reap the benefits of oil exploration, and we are committed to ensuring that our environment is protected for future generations”, he added.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also used the occasion to express deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his strong support for the development of the Niger Delta and his active interest in the NDDC. He praised the President for setting a tone of accountability and ensuring that the Commission is well-positioned to deliver on its mandate.
He charged the Commission to continually refine its strategies and ensure that its projects are tailored to the specific needs of the communities it serves.
“Let us work together to unlock the potential of our region, promote economic growth, and enhance the lives of our people,” he urged, emphasizing the importance of synergy between the NDDC and state actors.
Earlier during the service, the Bishop of Akure Anglican Diocese, Rt. Revd. Dr. Simon Oluwole Borokini, delivered a stirring sermon in which he reminded public officials that they would give account of their stewardship before God.
“Every man, regardless of title, will one day bow before God, the perfect judge who knows all. Positions of privilege are from God. The real question is: how are you using the position He has given you?” He asked
The NDDC Managing Director, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, in his remarks, highlighted the Commission’s legacy over the past quarter-century. He affirmed that the agency has remained accountable and transparent, stating that under the current administration, the NDDC is more focused than ever on purposeful development.
The Thanksgiving Service, attended by top government officials, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and stakeholders in the Niger Delta region, continued with a reception held at the International Culture and Events Centre (The Dome).