The Managing Director/CEO of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has been honored with the prestigious BusinessDay Excellence in Public Service Award 2025. This recognition was bestowed alongside the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, and several other distinguished Ministers, during the 2025 BusinessDay Public Service Lecture and Excellence Awards held in Abuja.

The award was presented to Dr. Ogbuku by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, at the event themed “Shaping Nigeria’s Economic Future: Navigating Challenges, Unlocking Opportunities”, which took place at The Blanc Grand Event Centre in Abuja on December 3, 2025. The ceremony featured insights from thought leaders, including a keynote address by former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan (represented by former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim).

In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Ogbuku expressed profound gratitude, describing the award as a testament to the collective hard work of the NDDC team and growing national appreciation for the Commission’s transformative efforts in the Niger Delta. He credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing the enabling platform and leadership that has driven meaningful change. He also acknowledged the support from the Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, and reaffirmed the Commission’s resolve to intensify efforts in 2026—delivering inclusive, people-focused development across every corner of the region in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, noted that the honor would further motivate the team to sustain and expand sustainable development initiatives. Executive Director, Corporate Services, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, hailed it as a major milestone for the NDDC, thanking BusinessDay for the recognition while pledging continued community impact.

Publisher of BusinessDay, Mr. Frank Aigbogun (represented by Editor Lolade Akinmurele), emphasized that the awards celebrate exceptional leadership and dedication in public service—going beyond efficiency to full commitment to national progress.

This accolade highlights Dr. Ogbuku’s outstanding stewardship in repositioning the NDDC for greater transparency, efficiency, and impact—validating ongoing reforms and fueling momentum for accelerated regional transformation.

Congratulations to Dr. Samuel Ogbuku and the entire NDDC family—proof that dedicated service is being recognized and rewarded!