President Bola Tinubu has charged the Niger Delta Development Commission boss, Samuel Ogbuku, to continue delivering impactful projects that touch lives, empower youth, and give hope to the communities.

Mr Tinubu, represented by finance minister Wale Edun, gave the advice at Mr Ogbuku’s 50th birthday bash and launch of two books in Abuja on Tuesday.

He urged Mr Ogbuku and his team to continue championing the transformation of NDDC.

According to him, the Niger Delta is more than a region; it is the country’s economic heartbeat. It is central to the energy and environmental future.

He said, “For decades, the story has been difficult. It has been complex with very rich resources on land and water. But serious challenges all the way.

“Our administration’s reforms focus on transparency and accountability resources, investment in infrastructure, and human capital. And of course, empowering communities and the grassroots so they can have a sustainable future.”

He also lauded Ogbuku’s family for providing the support and encouragement that enabled the NDDC boss to achieve the successes in the Commission.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio stated that the NDDC has turned around under the leadership of Mr Ogbuku.

Mr Akpabio recalled that when he was the minister of Niger Delta Affairs, he attempted to get the NDDC to complete the major electricity project in Ilaje, specifically in the Okitipupa area of Ondo.

Mr Akpabio, who stated that the project covered four local government areas and numerous villages, added that those areas had been in darkness for over 14 years.

He stated that the project was completed and inaugurated under the leadership of Mr Ogbuku and the current governing board of the NDDC.

(NAN)