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Tag: NDDC

  • 300 youths acquire skills for oil, gas jobs

    300 youths acquire skills for oil, gas jobs

    Three hundred Niger Delta youths have completed a special skills acquisition training suitable for work in the oil and gas industry.

    The training was held in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, under the auspices of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration.

    NDDC said the training became imperative following persistent complaints by oil and gas firms that they were not employing many youths because of lack of the requisite skills.

    The trainees who were selected from a specially created database for the purpose, underwent an intensive programme.

    According to NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the scheme was part of efforts to address youth unemployment and restiveness in Niger Delta.

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    Ogbuku, represented by NDDC Executive Director of Projects, Dr Victor Antai, described the programme as “development in action” noting:

    “Every enduring legacy begins with a foundation. What we are doing today is laying the groundwork for the skills, vision, and effort to build the Niger Delta of our dreams. These trainings are not just routine empowerment but strategic investments in human capital. When we teach scaffolding, we are not just building structures; we are raising futures. When we teach pipe coating and fitting, we are sealing the lips of unemployment and poverty.”

    Antai said the training was part of the commission’s efforts to reduce youth restiveness, create employment opportunities, and alleviate poverty.

    He said: “It is noteworthy that we are gathered to celebrate the graduation of youths from the Niger Delta who have been trained to acquire skills in pipe fitting, scaffolding, forklift operations, and sand blasting. This is in line with the provisions of Section 7 of the NDDC Establishment Act 2000, as amended”

    NDDC, he said, was committed to realising its mandate of human capacity development that would be sustainable and regenerative, noting that trainees from the nine states of the oil-producing region participated in the training.

     In a goodwill message, NDDC Executive Director  for Corporate Services, Ifedayo Abegunde, congratulated the trainees and urged them to apply their knowledge productively, create wealth, and contribute to the region’s development.

     The representative of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Mr. Timothy Iyenabo, urged the trainees to develop a road map for upscaling and training others.

    NDDC Director, Commercial and Industrial Development Lyna Okara reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to building a capable and employable youth population.

     “This training will equip you with knowledge, experience, and make you employable or have self-employment skills, thereby contributing to your personal growth and a sustainable regional economy,” she said.

    Mrs Blessing Olodiama, chief operating officer of Thompson Best Nigeria Limited, the lead consultant for the programme, described the training as timely and relevant in today’s skill-driven world. She encouraged participants to make the most of the programme.

     Highlight of the ceremony, which was witnessed by some NDDC directors, was the presentation of certificates to the trainees.

  • Youths hail NDDC on Procurement Act

    Youths hail NDDC on Procurement Act

    The national leadership of the Host Communities producing Oil, Gas, and Pipeline Impacted States Youth Council of Nigeria (HOSTCON Youth Council), alongside its Board of Trustees (BoT), has publicly praised Dr. Week Doodei, for his exemplary conduct as the Director of Procurement at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

    In a statement released on Thursday by The National President of HOSTCON, Comrade Emmanuel Fiawei Pathfinder, the Council highlighted Dr. Doodei’s professionalism, transparency, and unwavering commitment, which they credited as instrumental to the positive transformation within the Niger Delta region under the direction of Dr. Samuel Ogbuku.

    Pathfinder said Doodie’s adherence to the Procurement Act is noted as a benchmark for the commissioning of contracts, aligning with the principles of meritocracy.

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    The group emphasised that Doodei’s effective resource management and straightforward procurement strategies had led to contract awards based on competence and regulatory compliance, fostering an environment of transparency and accountability.

    The Council said this approach had facilitated the timely delivery of projects, reinforcing trust in the Commission’s processes.

    Furthermore, the Council asserted that the ongoing reforms at the NDDC had bolstered the organisation’s credibility, resulting in contractors meeting project deadlines.

    The group said the progress had brought significant improvements to the host communities across the nine Niger Delta states.

    The Council also lamented previous inefficiencies, where a lack of adherence to the Procurement Act obstructed growth and development in the area and recognised Dr. Doodei’s leadership as a pivotal shift towards more effective service delivery within the commission.

    The group said that through his initiatives, the NDDC had reportedly made substantial contributions to the rural economy, encompassing projects in education, healthcare, electrification, agriculture, road infrastructure, and various empowerment programmes.

    It also noted that traditional rulers in the region had publicly acknowledged the positive changes resulting from Doodei’s initiatives, reinforcing the impact of his work on their communities.

    Highlighting his role during the 2022 flood crisis, HOSTCON noted that Doodei coordinated the distribution of palliatives to affected communities in Bayelsa State, working closely with local representatives to ensure relief materials reached those mostly in need.

    The Council stressed that under Doodei’s stewardship as Director of Procurement in line with the laudable transformational programme and reforms of the MD/CEO of the commission, Chief Dr Samuel Ogbuku’s watch had regained its reputation as a credible intervention agency of the Federal Government.

    The group also commended the leadership of the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for selfless service and project delivery across the Niger Delta states.

    Similarly, the group hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment of Ogbuku as the commission’s MD, a vibrant foresighted visionary leader that has reshaped, repositioned and transformed the region.

  • 300 Niger Delta youths graduate from NDDC technical skills programme

    300 Niger Delta youths graduate from NDDC technical skills programme

    No fewer than 300 youths from the Niger Delta region have graduated from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Technical Skills Training Programme across various fields of specialisation.

    Speaking at the graduation ceremony held at the NDDC event centre in Port Harcourt, the Commission’s Executive Director, Projects, Dr. Victor Antai, said the initiative was part of efforts to curb youth restiveness, create jobs, and reduce poverty in the region.

    Representing the Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Antai explained that the training—covering pipe fitting, scaffolding, forklift operations, and sandblasting—was designed to fill critical manpower gaps in the oil and gas industry.

    According to a statement signed by the Commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, the programme reflects the Commission’s commitment to building human capacity in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He said, “It is noteworthy that we are gathered to celebrate the graduation of youths from the Niger Delta region who have been trained to acquire skills in pipe fitting, scaffolding, forklift operations, sand blasting to learn and to benefit from a programme such as this. This is in line with the Provisions of Section 7 of the NDDC Establishment Act 2000, as amended.”

    He said that NDDC was committed to realising its mandate of human capacity development that would be sustainable and regenerative, noting that trainees from the nine states of the region participated in the training.

    Antai advised the graduands to remain focused, as the NDDC invested a considerable amount of money to train them in the various areas to produce worthy trained personnel for various industries that require skills in oil and gas, and manufacturing.

    Read Also: UN, NDDC collaborate on Niger Delta sustainable development goals

    He added that the development would further lead to a decrease in the demand for white collar jobs, development in the SMEs among others, in line with the ideals of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    He described the graduands as pioneers and ambassadors of the NDDC, part of the fulfilment of the current NDDC board’s vision to restore hope to the people of the region.

    The Director, Commercial and Industrial Development, Mrs. Lyna Okara, said the training programme was well thought out to address the needs of the oil and gas industry.  

    In a goodwill message, the representative of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Mr. Timothy Iyenabo urged the graduands. to develop a road map towards upscaling and training others.

    The ceremony, which was witnessed by the Executive Director, Corporate Services, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, Director, Agriculture and Fisheries, Dr Winifred Madume and other NDDC Directors, featured the presentation of certificates to the graduands.

  • UN, NDDC collaborate on Niger Delta sustainable development goals

    UN, NDDC collaborate on Niger Delta sustainable development goals

    The United Nations (UN) and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) have organised a stakeholders’ dialogue to identify challenges facing the Niger Delta region and to align it with the UN’s Six Transitions and the Niger Delta Regional Development Strategy.

    Speaking at the summit on the localisation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Niger Delta region, NDDC Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics, Dr. Patterson Ogon, highlighted the key areas of focus to include problem identification, as well as solution design and prioritisation.

    Ogon, in a statement signed by the commission’s Director, Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, advocated the adequate use of the region’s natural resources, such as wind and solar, in generating power.

    He also called for the more effective and efficient use of ICT by the Niger Delta youths to achieve economic independence.

    In the area of education, Ogon proposed a synergy between major stakeholders in the Niger Delta region to ensure that quality education was bequeathed to the people of the region.

    He urged the Niger Delta people to take charge of growing their own food, capitalising on the fertile region.

    A consultant for the Niger Delta Regional Development Strategy, Mr. Stephen Onerhime, outlined the strategies adopted for the region’s development.

    He named the strategies as economic, infrastructural, social and environmental development, as well as governance, institutions, security, law and order, and financing the plans.

    Read Also: Senate Committee inspects major NDDC projects in C/River

    He highlighted the advantages of the Niger Delta Regional Development Strategy, including a harmonised plan geared towards producing a standard, acceptable framework for the Niger Delta region; a monitoring and evaluation mechanism to ensure the impact of projects in the area, as well as the progress and effectiveness of these projects.

    The Projects Coordinator of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, noted that HYPREP had been implementing remedial activities at the 65 UNEP sites through soil treatment and groundwater treatment.

    He said that the adopted methodologies for the shoreline cleanup included shoreline treatment and artisanal refinery treatment.

    The HYPREP coordinator, represented by Mr. Agunyi Damian Paul, said the agency had launched the world’s largest initiative to restore mangroves damaged by oil pollution, focusing on monitoring the growth and progress of planted mangroves towards maturity.

    He said, “This is significant for the Niger Delta region because it has the potential to protect shorelines, improve food security, mitigate the impacts of floods, control climate change, and provide adaptation benefits.”

  • Senate Committee inspects major NDDC projects in C/River

    Senate Committee inspects major NDDC projects in C/River

    The Senate Committee on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) led by its Chairman, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, has inspected major ongoing road construction projects being executed by the commission in Cross River State.

    Members of the Senate Committee, accompanied by the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku and the Executive Director, Projects, Dr Victor Antai, inspected the 20-kilometre Okomita–Uyanga–Ehom Road in Akamkpa and Biase Local Government Areas.

    A statement signed by the NDDC Director, Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama said the team also inspected the 1.5km Idundu Junction–Idundu Bridge Road in Akpabuyo LGA, and 10.8km Aking–Osomba Road in Akamkpa Local Government Area.

    Speaking during the inspection, the NDDC Chief Executive Officer reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to delivering quality infrastructure.

    He said:  “The NDDC is determined to deliver durable projects that truly benefit our people. These roads will ease transportation burdens and stimulate socio-economic growth in Cross River State and across the Niger Delta.

    “We will continue to work closely with the Senate Committee and stakeholders to ensure transparency, accountability, and timely project delivery.”

    Giving details of the projects, the NDDC’s Executive Director of Projects, Dr Victor Antai, described the Okomita–Uyanga–Ehom Road as a lifeline for commerce, agriculture, education, and healthcare in the region.

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    He said: “This road reconstruction is not just about asphalt and concrete; it is about opening up communities, reducing travel time, and boosting economic activities.”

    Ekpenyong, while commending Governor Bassey Otu’s infrastructural drive, emphasised the Senate’s support for the NDDC’s focus on Renewed Hope projects that directly impact communities.

    He said: “These roads are vital lifelines for our people; opening up communities, boosting trade, and improving access to markets, schools, and healthcare. The 10th Senate under the leadership of Senator Godswill Akpabio, remains fully committed to supporting the NDDC in completing these projects to the highest standards.”

    The inspection team was received by the Cross River State Director, Dr. Daniel Ajunwa, Chairman of Akamkpa LGA, Hon. Felix Akposi, alongside State Legislators and Councillors representing the host communities.

  • ‎Stakeholders laud NDDC’s human capital development initiatives

    ‎Stakeholders laud NDDC’s human capital development initiatives

    ‎Speakers and stakeholders have lauded the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for preparing the region’s youths for the future through human capital development initiatives.

    ‎They harped on the need for the youths to embrace technology, skills acquisition, and innovation as pathways to sustainable development and social transformation. 

    ‎They spoke at the 2025 International Youth Day Celebration held at Boji-Boji Owa, Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta State.

    ‎Welcoming participants to the event which was powered by the NDDC, the Commission’s Executive Director of Finance, Mrs. Josephine Ejereye, said the Youth Day celebration was aimed at advancing multilateral cooperation through technology and partnership. 

    ‎She urged the youths to apply lessons from the engagement to impact their world positively, noting that the commission was committed to creating opportunities for young people across the region.

    ‎United Nations Peace Ambassador and Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Talent Development, Amb. Ugagaoghene Ogheneyole, was full praises for the NDDC board led by Chiedu Ebie for bringing vitality to the Commission.

    ‎He describee the leadership as “a truly interventionist body delivering quality, people-oriented, and immensely important infrastructure across the region.” 

    ‎He called on young people to embrace digital skills as tools for problem-solving and regional growth. 

    ‎Ogheneyole noted that the present era is one of digitalisation, where technology is indispensable for addressing human needs, listing computer literacy, artificial intelligence, data science, coding, audiovisual design, UI/UX, and digital marketing as skills in high demand across industries.

    ‎He stressed the need for the NDDC to move beyond physical infrastructure to continue to invest in human capital through digital incubation centres, grants, and venture capital for youth-driven innovations.

    ‎“The Silicon Valley did not grow into an over a trillion-dollar industrial ecosystem because of great ideas alone. Its major driving force was conscious investment in youth ideas through grants, sponsorship deals, and venture capital. 

    ‎”If the NDDC and other stakeholders can intentionally invest in the dreams of young people carrying laptops around with big visions, the Niger Delta will reap the benefits of job creation, improved GDP, and capital market growth,” he said.

    ‎Pledging his personal commitment to the process, Ogheneyole said he was willing to volunteer to work with the NDDC for free to design a roadmap for youth-driven innovation. 

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    ‎“As a youth of Niger Delta, I am pledging to volunteer, to work with the NDDC to develop a realistic initiative to drive this process. Let us become the change we want to see,” he told the gathering.

    ‎In his presentation titled “Youth as Frontiers of Positive Change in the Niger Delta” the Executive Director of the Centre for Core Values, Leadership and Orientation, Abuja, Eugene Uzum, a lawyer, described Niger Delta youths as critical drivers of sustainable development, explaining that with more than 54 percent of Delta State’s estimated 5.9 million population falling within the youth bracket, the demographic advantage could stimulate massive growth if given the right opportunities.

    ‎Uzum, a former Director-General of the Delta State Orientation Bureau, identified four pillars for meaningful youth contribution empowerment, innovation, community engagement, and sustainable development. 

    ‎He stressed that empowerment through education, mindset reorientation, and access to financial and technical resources was “primus in the scheme of determinants” for change.

    ‎Uzum noted that many young people in the region were already leveraging technology, entrepreneurship, and creative solutions to tackle local challenges. 

    According to him, initiatives in environmental conservation, renewable energy, entrepreneurship, and civic responsibility could reposition the region for growth. 

    ‎“Youth-led initiatives are already driving positive change in the Niger Delta, promoting sustainable development and good governance,” he said.

    ‎While acknowledging challenges such as insecurity, corruption, and limited resources, Uzum insisted that with proper support, young people could transform the region. 

    ‎He urged youths to take personal responsibility for their progress, admonishing that “going far in life is not determined by where you start from, or even whether you start at all. Life is actually what you put into it. Nobody owes you a living”

    ‎The event formed part of activities to mark the 2025 International Youth Day Celebration, and featured robust discussions on how to reposition the region’s youths as leaders, innovators, and agents of sustainable development.

  • Senate committee inspects major NDDC projects in Cross River

    Senate committee inspects major NDDC projects in Cross River

    The Senate Committee on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) led by its Chairman, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, has inspected major ongoing road construction projects being executed by the commission in Cross River State.

    Members of the Senate Committee, accompanied by the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku and the Executive Director, Projects, Dr Victor Antai, inspected the 20-kilometre Okomita–Uyanga–Ehom Road in Akamkpa and Biase Local Government Areas.

    A statement signed by the NDDC Director, Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama said the team also inspected the 1.5km Idundu Junction–Idundu Bridge Road in Akpabuyo LGA, and 10.8km Aking–Osomba Road in Akamkpa Local Government Area.

    Speaking during the inspection, the NDDC Chief Executive Officer reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to delivering quality infrastructure.

    He said, “The NDDC is determined to deliver durable projects that truly benefit our people. These roads will ease transportation burdens and stimulate socio-economic growth in Cross River State and across the Niger Delta. 

    “We will continue to work closely with the Senate Committee and stakeholders to ensure transparency, accountability, and timely project delivery.”

    Read Also: 32 NDDC scholars graduate with distinctions in UK varsity

    Giving details of the projects, the NDDC’s Executive Director of Projects, Dr Victor Antai, described the Okomita–Uyanga–Ehom Road as a lifeline for commerce, agriculture, education, and healthcare in the region. 

    He assured that the commission would closely monitor the contractor to ensure quality and timely completion.

    He said, “This road reconstruction is not just about asphalt and concrete; it is about opening up communities, reducing travel time, and boosting economic activities.”

    Ekpenyong, while commending Governor Bassey Otu’s infrastructural drive, emphasised the Senate’s support for the NDDC’s focus on Renewed Hope projects that directly impact communities.

    He said, “These roads are vital lifelines for our people; opening up communities, boosting trade, and improving access to markets, schools, and healthcare. The 10th Senate under the leadership of Senator Godswill Akpabio, remains fully committed to supporting the NDDC in completing these projects to the highest standards.”

    The inspection team was received by the Cross River State Director, Dr. Daniel Ajunwa, Chairman of Akamkpa LGA, Hon. Felix Akposi, alongside State Legislators and Councillors representing the host communities.

  • Tinubu tasks NDDC to deliver impactful projects that touch lives

    Tinubu tasks NDDC to deliver impactful projects that touch lives

    President Bola Tinubu has charged the Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Samuel Ogbuku, to continue to deliver impactful projects that touch lives, empower youth, and give hopes to the communities.

    Tinubu, who was represented by Chief Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, gave the advice at Ogbuku’s 50th Anniversary/Launching of two Books in Abuja on Tuesday.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the two books titled ‘Strategies and Imperative for Developing Niger Delta’ and ‘Rethinking the Niger Delta’ were written by Ogbuku.

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

    “Ladies and gentlemen, I bring the words in summary of his Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    “As we all know, he is even abroad at the moment, attending the Tokyo International Conference on African Development. And it is my honour, it is my privilege to represent him here.

    “Let me not forget our traditional rulers who have come out in their normal to honour the celebrant. As was said earlier, turning 50, a very special occasion. It is called the golden age, when one looks back with gratitude and ahead with a sense of purpose.

    “In Dr Ogbuku’s case, we celebrate not just years, but a life of service, a life of scholarship, a life of achievement. And you’ve been at it, and you were recognised for it almost 30 years ago.

    “As I said at the launching of the books, these two books are all about your strategy, your values, and indeed, your ability to execute.”

    According to him, Niger Delta is more than a region, it is the economic heartbeat of this country. And it is central to the energy and the environmental future.

    “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 for NDDC boss to record the achievements in the Commission.

    Also speaking, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, said that the NDDC has turned around under the leadership of Ogbuku.

    Akpabio recalled that when he was the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, he tried to get NDDC to complete the major electricity project in Ilaje, that is the Okitipupa area of Ondo State.

    The Senate President, who said that the project covered four local government areas and many villages, added that those areas were in darkness for over 14 years.

    He said the project was completed and commissioned under the leadership of Ogbuku and the current Governing Board of the NDDC.

    “NDDC board never used to last up to 10 months. So, consistently when we were governors, the then President would call us and say bring names. And I said what happened? He said these people are too corrupt, I’m sending them away.

    “But here we are, instead of coming here to submit names, to replace you (Ogbuku), we are coming to celebrate you.

    “We are celebrating your two years of impactful leadership, two years of focus, two years of collaboration, and two years of work, showing strength and focus in leadership.

    “You will not be remembered by just this celebration, you will be remembered for the kind of legacies you leave behind for the good people of Niger Delta,” Akpabio said.

    In his remarks, Ogbuku thanked President Tinubu for giving him an opportunity as NDDC CEO to make a difference in the NDDC.

    He recalled that during his maiden meeting with the President, he expressed concern over the state of NDDC affairs.

    “I want to thank Mr. President for not even knowing or trusting me that we could work together to make this difference. And it was because of the charge Mr. President gave me that I and my team today, we decided to do what we are doing.

    “Without Mr. President’s charge, without his confidence, without his broad language, probably we would not have passed this charge to us.

    “We decided to sit down to ensure that we will give back on Mr. President’s goodwill and kindness.

    “The next time I saw Mr. President, made that contact inside the room, what came out from his mouth was a thank you. By that I mean you have said that you have promised that you will say no, I know, but I have my source of information.

    “I will not tell you what you have achieved because I was eager to let you know what you have achieved. He said, I know, I have my source of information. He said thank you.

    “And what Mr. President said was, you see, it is that pitch I gave you that created the spark in you. I said thank you. So, I want to thank Mr. President for not only appointing me to the NDDC, but for also giving me that pitch that has created that spark in me today.

    “That has brought about a movement in Nigeria that I have peace in Nigeria. So, whatever we have achieved today in NDDC, I give the credit to Mr. President.”

    According to him, this is because he decided to take personal interest in NDDC to ensure that NDDC does not fail to guard his watch.

    “And he is still very much attentive to our activities and all that we do. So, I want to use this opportunity to thank Mr. President.”

    (NAN)

  • Case against usurpation of NJC’spowers

    Case against usurpation of NJC’spowers

    • SERAP seeks probe of missing funds

    What has happened to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) audit report?

    Why have contractors who collected over N167 billion from 31 ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) but failed to execute any projects not been prosecuted?

    These are among the latest questions being asked by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) as it works to promote transparency and accountability in the use of Nigeria’s resources.

    SERAP has urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), to promptly investigate the allegations that high-ranking officials and politicians indicted in the report of the forensic audit on the NDDC between 2000 and 2019 obstructed the publication of the report.

    The group urged the President “to direct Mr Fagbemi and appropriate anti-corruption agencies to promptly identify those responsible for obstructing the release of the report and bring them to justice for obstruction of justice.”

    SERAP also urged him to direct the AGF to publish the NDDC forensic report immediately and to name and shame those responsible for the alleged embezzlement of over N6 trillion, bring them to justice, recover any proceeds of corruption, and provide adequate compensation to victims.

    It stated: “The NDDC forensic audit report allegedly reveals grim allegations of misappropriation of N6 trillion in the commission between 2000 and 2019, and that there are over 13,000 abandoned projects in the Niger Delta.

    “The missing N6 trillion and over 13,000 abandoned projects in the Niger Delta have continued to have a negative impact on the human rights of Nigerians, undermining their access to basic public goods and services, such as education, healthcare, and regular and uninterrupted electricity supply.

    “The NDDC forensic audit report was supposed to be published by the Buhari administration. Four years after it was submitted to the former president, the report still has not seen the light of day.”

    In the letter dated  July 5, 2025 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “While the audit report may make uncomfortable reading for the indicted officials and politicians, your government has a constitutional responsibility to publish it and act upon its recommendations.

    “Obstructing the release of the forensic audit report or hiding it is a grave and wilful attempt to obstruct, prevent and pervert the course of justice for the allegations of corruption in the NDDC.”

    It noted that approximately N1.4 billion was reportedly approved for the auditors who carried out the NDDC forensic audit, which has been gathering dust.

    It vowed to take appropriate legal actions before the ECOWAS Court of Justice to compel the government to comply with the request in the public interest.

    SERAP sues NNPCL

    SERAP has filed a lawsuit against the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited over the “failure to account for and explain the whereabouts of the alleged missing N500 billion, which the NNPCL failed to remit to the Federation Account between October 2024 and December 2024.”

    The suit followed the allegations by the World Bank that out of the N1.1trillion revenue from crude sales and other income in 2024, the NNPCL only remitted N600 billion, leaving a deficit of N500 billion unaccounted for.

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    In response to SERAP’s Freedom of Information (FoI) request, the NNPCL had claimed through its lawyers, Afe Babalola and Co, that the FoI Act does not apply to it.

    But in the suit numbered FHC/L/MSC/553/2025 at the Federal High Court in Lagos, SERAP seeks “an order of mandamus to direct and compel the NNPCL to account for the alleged missing N500 billion, which it allegedly failed to remit to the Federation Account between October 2024 and December 2024.”

    The suit, filed on behalf of SERAP by its lawyers, Kolawole Oluwadare, Ms Oluwakemi Oni, and Ms Valentina Adegoke, states: “Nigerians continue to bear the brunt of these missing public funds from the NNPCL meant for the economic development of the country.

    “There is a legitimate public interest in providing the details sought. The NNPC has a legal responsibility to account for and explain the whereabouts of the missing oil money.

    “The country’s oil wealth ought to be used solely for the benefit of the Nigerian people, and for the sake of the present and future generations.

    “Without the full recovery and remittance of the missing N500 billion oil revenues, the dire economic situation may worsen and Nigerians will continue to be denied access to basic public goods and services.”

    SERAP noted that the Auditor-General of the Federation and the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) have, for years, documented reports of the disappearance of oil money from the NNPCL.

    “The World Bank recently disclosed that out of the N1.1trillion revenue from crude sales and other income in 2024, the NNPCL only remitted N600 billion, leaving a deficit of N500 billion unaccounted for.

    “The revenue and other income were expected to be paid into the Federation Account and shared by all levels of government, but the NNPCL reportedly failed to do so.”

    Aside from the suit, SERAP urged NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr Bayo Bashir Ojulari, “to account for and explain the whereabouts of the missing N500 billion, which the NNPCL failed to remit to the Federation Account, between October 2024 and December 2024, as revealed by the World Bank.”

    SERAP urged Mr Ojulari “to identify those suspected to be involved, surcharge them for the full amount involved, and hand them over to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for investigation and prosecution.”

    In a Freedom of Information request dated  May 17, 2025 and signed by Oluwadare, the organisation said: “There is a legitimate public interest in explaining the whereabouts of the alleged missing N500 billion oil money and grave violations of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended].

    “Had the NNPCL accounted for and remitted the alleged missing N500 billion to the Federation Account, it is likely that more funds would have been allocated to the fulfilment of economic and social rights, such as increased spending on public goods and services.” 

    Suit on N167b unexecuted contracts

    In another case, SERAP sued President Tinubu over “the failure to direct the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Olawale Edun, to name and ensure the prosecution of the contractors who collected over N167 billion from 31 ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) but failed to execute any projects.”

    Joined in the suit as respondent is the AGF.

    In the suit numbered FHC/L/MISC/121/2025 filed at the Federal High Court, Lagos, SERAP is asking the court to compel President Tinubu to direct Mr Fagbemi to bring to justice, as appropriate, any companies and contractors who collected over N167 billion of public funds from 31 MDAs but failed to execute any projects.

    It asked for the publication of the specific names of the companies and contractors, as well as details, such as locations, as documented in the 2021 Audited Report by the Auditor General of the Federation.

    SERAP argued: “The allegations of corruption involving many companies and contractors who collected over N167 billion from 31 MDAs have continued to impair, obstruct and undermine access of poor Nigerians to public goods and services.”

    The suit filed on behalf of SERAP by its lawyers, Oluwadare and Ms Oluwakemi Agunbiade, states: “Granting the reliefs sought would ensure transparency and accountability in how any public funds are spent by MDAs, and reduce vulnerability to corruption and mismanagement.”

    Before the suit, SERAP had urged President Tinubu “to direct Edun and the Accountant-General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein, to disclose the specific names of the companies and contractors who collected over N167 billion from 31 MDAs but failed to execute any projects.

    In the letter dated 30 November 2024 and signed by Oluwadare, the organisation said: “Publishing the names will make it hard for companies and contractors to get away with complicity in grand corruption.

    “Holding the companies and contractors who collected over N167 billion from 31 MDAs but disappeared with the money accountable would also prevent and combat waste, fraud, and abuse in the spending of public funds.

    “The Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc. (NBET) alone reportedly paid N100 billion to companies and contractors for projects not executed.

    “The 30 other MDAs include Nigerian Correctional Service; National Pension Commission, Abuja; Federal College of Land Resources Technology, Owerri; and Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) Office.

    “Others include: Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF); Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development; Federal Medical Centre, Bida, Niger state; National Centre for Women Development; Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution; National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB); Federal University of Gasua; and Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.

    “The companies and contractors that allegedly disappeared with public funds meant for public projects may also be liable for aiding and abetting the commission of acts of grand corruption.

    “We would, therefore, be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within seven days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter.

    “If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.”

    Probe ‘missing N26b’

    SERAP has urged President Tinubu to direct Fagbemi and appropriate anti-corruption agencies to promptly probe allegations that over N26 billion of public funds were missing, diverted or stolen from the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) and the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources in 2021.

    The damning revelation, it said, is documented in the 2021 audited report published on November 13 2024 by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation.

    SERAP said: “Anyone suspected to be responsible should face prosecution as appropriate, if there is sufficient admissible evidence, and any missing public funds should be fully recovered and remitted to the treasury.”

    SERAP urged the President to “use any recovered stolen funds to fund the deficit in the 2025 budget and to ease Nigeria’s crippling debt crisis.” 

    In the letter dated 1 February 2025 and signed by Oluwadare, the organisation said: “There is a legitimate public interest in ensuring justice and accountability for these grave allegations.

    “Tackling corruption in the oil sector would go a long way in addressing the budget deficit and debt problems.”

    ‘Stop giving cars, houses to judges’

    In another public interest intervention, SERAP urged President Tinubu to stop the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike and 36 governors from usurping the authority and responsibilities of the National Judicial Council (NJC) and heads of court through giving cars and houses to judges.

    SERAP said: “Such practices are clearly antithetical to the constitutional principles of separation of powers, checks and balances and the rule of law, and may create the perception that the judiciary is subservient to the executive.”

    The group also urged him to direct Fagbemi, as a defender of public interest, to challenge in court the constitutionality and legality of the practices by members of the executive of giving cars and houses to judges in Abuja and across the states.

    In the open letter signed by Oluwadare, the organisation said: “Politicians ought to keep their hands off the judiciary and respect and protect its integrity and independence. Politicians must treat judges with dignity and respect.

    “The Nigerian Constitution and international standards make clear that the judiciary is neither subservient to the executive nor the legislature.”

    The letter, copied to Ms. Margaret Satterthwaite, UN Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers, added: “Undermining the fundamental principle of separation of powers risks constraining the ability of the judiciary to act as a check on the executive.

    “SERAP urges you to substantially improve funding for the judiciary to enhance their working conditions, welfare and pensions through existing constitutional arrangements and mechanisms, to uphold the independence and autonomy of the judiciary and to protect judges from executive interference.

    “Your government has the constitutional and international obligations to promote public confidence in the judiciary and safeguard the rule of law.”

    About SERAP

    SERAP’s work includes research and publications, legal support and litigation, public mobilisation, media advocacy and government engagement. It highlights and educates the general public on civil rights.

    The group received the Wole Soyinka Anti-Corruption Defender Award in 2014.

    It has also been nominated for the UN Civil Society Award and the Ford Foundation’s Jubilee Transparency Award.

    SERAP serves as one of two Sub-Saharan African civil society representatives on the UNCAC Coalition, a global anti-corruption network of over 310 civil society organisations (CSOs) in over 100 countries.

    It has filed many public interest cases and petitions before Nigerian courts, ECOWAS Court, African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

  • 32 NDDC scholars graduate with distinctions in UK varsity

    32 NDDC scholars graduate with distinctions in UK varsity

    The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has celebrated 32 beneficiaries of its Post Graduate Scholarship Programme, who graduated with distinctions from Coventry University in the United Kingdom.

    The NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, led a delegation of NDDC directors to join the students at their graduation ceremony in Coventry. 

    A statement signed by the commission’s Director Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thomson-Wakama, said in the team were the directors of Education, Health, and Social Services, Dr. George Uzonwanne, Dr. Angela Awele Chukwudifu, and Deputy Director, Dr. Bomiegha Ehiokioya. 

    Ogbuku praised the scholars for being good ambassadors of the Niger Delta region, noting that no scholar from the Commission had ever been associated with any vice or misconduct.  

    Ogbuku commended the scholars for their achievements, saying they had brought pride to the NDDC and Niger Deltans.

    He said, “This is evident in the honours bestowed upon NDDC Scholars by universities in the United Kingdom. Their notable achievements and exemplary conduct illustrate that we are indeed admirable individuals.”

    He observed that previous beneficiaries of the scholarship programme set enviable standards for subsequent groups.

     “It is remarkable that 18 of our scholars graduated with distinction in Coventry University last year”, he said.

    The NDDC boss said that the commission was serious with its human capital development programmes, noting that education was the most powerful weapon for changing the fortunes of the Niger Delta region.

    He said, “I am thrilled to be in Coventry to celebrate our scholars. Their outstanding performance confirms the transparent process through which the beneficiaries were selected.”

    The Managing Director said that the visit allowed the NDDC team to discuss collaborative arrangements between Coventry University and universities in the Niger Delta region. 

    Ogbuku said that the scholars, who did not make distinctions might have been deficient in computer education, noting that computer illiteracy was a challenge.

     He said, “The education system in the United Kingdom incorporates technology and employs blended learning techniques, which may be unfamiliar to many Nigerian scholars. Henceforth, applicants seeking the upcoming NDDC foreign Post-Graduate Scholarship award are required to provide proof of their computer proficiency.” 

    Read Also: NDDC: Covering up corruption

    Mr. Royal Nwachukwu, a cybersecurity graduate, expressed appreciation to the NDDC for the scholarship programme, saying it had enhanced their opportunities for employment.

    He appealed to the commission to continue with the initiative and improve on it to allow more indigenes of the Niger Delta to reap its benefits.

    Nwachukwu assured that the beneficiaries of the scholarship scheme would continue to strive for excellence and enhance the region’s prestige. 

    He also pledged the commitment of the scholars to use their knowledge and skills to serve the people of the Niger Delta region.