By Frank Ulom
PORT HARCOURT (CONVERSEER) – The Cross River State Representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke PhD, has joined dignitaries, family and well-wishers in celebrating the birthday of the Commission’s Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, in a ceremony that combined joy, reflection, and intellectual engagement.
The event, held in honour of Dr Ogbuku, brought together colleagues, friends, and supporters of the NDDC Managing Director, who has been widely described as one of the leading voices championing the development of the Niger Delta.
Duke’s Tribute to Ogbuku
In his goodwill message, Dr Duke lauded the celebrant as “a visionary leader whose dedication to the Niger Delta continues to inspire and transform lives.” He prayed for God’s continued guidance, wisdom, good health and strength for Dr Ogbuku, while commending his leadership style which he said has brought renewed hope to the Commission and the region.
“Dr Ogbuku has demonstrated focus and commitment in driving initiatives that directly impact communities,” Duke stated, reaffirming his support for collaborative efforts aimed at further strengthening the delivery of the NDDC’s mandate.
Book Launch Adds Depth to Celebration
The birthday celebration went beyond the usual fanfare, as Dr Ogbuku also unveiled two books he authored: Rethinking the Niger Delta and Strategies and Imperatives for Developing the Niger Delta.
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The books, according to attendees, reflect his deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the region, offering a roadmap for sustainable development, policy reforms, and community-driven solutions. The launch underscored his dual role as both a public servant and a thought leader on issues affecting the Niger Delta.
Ogbuku’s Leadership at the NDDC
Since assuming office as Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr Ogbuku has prioritised transparency, infrastructural development, and empowerment programmes targeted at the region’s youth and women. His tenure has been marked by efforts to reposition the Commission towards projects that address the immediate needs of the people while laying foundations for long-term growth.
Observers at the celebration noted that his leadership has helped rebuild public confidence in the Commission, which has faced criticism in the past over issues of accountability and project delivery.
A Celebration of Unity and Progress
The ceremony, attended by dignitaries, political associates and community leaders, reflected unity, joy and a shared vision for the future of the Niger Delta. With music, tributes, and intellectual engagement through the book launch, the celebration became both a personal milestone and a public reaffirmation of the region’s collective commitment to progress.
For Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, the occasion was not only about felicitating with Dr Ogbuku but also about endorsing the spirit of collaboration that will enable the NDDC to continue driving development in the Niger Delta.
