Chief Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director/CEO of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has been honored as a UI@75 Ambassador Extraordinaire.

The awardee views the recognition as a testament to the NDDC’s positive impact on the Niger Delta community.

At the decoration ceremony in Port Harcourt, Chief Ogbuku dedicated the award to the Commission’s Management and staff, acknowledging their support and strength in achieving success.

The NDDC has made significant contributions to the region over the past 25 years, including building hospitals, schools, roads, jetties, bridges, and awarding scholarships to local students.

Chief Ogbuku emphasized the Commission’s role in complementing the efforts of the nine state governments in the region, aligning with the President of Nigeria’s mandate for regional development.

This recognition also symbolizes the formation of a strategic partnership between the NDDC and the University of Ibadan.

Chief Ogbuku expressed his gratitude, noting that the University’s endorsement is a seal of credibility.

He emphasized the importance of research in Nigerian universities, particularly in indigenous knowledge, and encouraged regional universities to collaborate with the University of Ibadan to address pressing medical, ecological, and agricultural challenges.

In his address, Professor Kayode Adebowale, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, praised Chief Ogbuku’s humility, diligence, and impactful contributions to the Niger Delta’s development.

Credit: Directorate of Public Communication, UI