CHIEF (DR.) SAMUEL OGBUKU: CELEBRATING A NIGER DELTA ICON @ 50
The Holy Bible reminds us in Proverbs 29:2 that “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.”
Few leaders so aptly embody the spirit of this timeless wisdom as Chief (Dr.) Samuel Ogbuku, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), who on Tuesday August 19 2025 will mark his golden jubilee.
For decades, the Niger Delta, despite its immense natural wealth, wrestled with neglect, underdevelopment and instability. Communities were plagued by deprivation and insecurity, with little hope for transformation. Yet, the appointment of Chief (Dr.) Ogbuku as MD/CEO of the NDDC has proven a turning point.
Through purposeful leadership and a vision rooted in service, he has redefined governance in the region.
Under his stewardship, the NDDC has been re-engineered to embrace global best practices, shifting from bureaucracy and inefficiency to people-centered service delivery.
From infrastructure development to youth empowerment, from gender-inclusive initiatives to community stabilization programmes, his leadership has touched lives in profound ways. Villages that once groaned under the weight of despair now experience peace, growth and a renewed sense of possibility.
Chief (Dr.) Ogbuku has distinguished himself not merely as an administrator but as a beacon of inspiration; galvanizing women, youths and grassroots communities to embrace the ideals of sustainable development. His courage, character, compassion and competence have earned him widespread admiration and trust across the Niger Delta and beyond.
At 50, he stands as more than a leader of an interventionist agency; he is a statesman, whose impacts resonate nationally. His dynamism and resourcefulness make him an invaluable asset not only to the Niger Delta but also to the Federal Republic of Nigeria at large.
On this auspicious occasion of his golden jubilee, we, the people of the Niger Delta, particularly the vibrant youth constituency, proudly celebrate a man, who has written his name in gold through visionary leadership and transformative service.
We extend our heartfelt felicitations and prayers for long life, sound health and continued wisdom, even as we look forward to greater achievements under his inspiring guidance.
Happy 50th Birthday, Chief (Dr.) Samuel Ogbuku, an icon of our time.
Signed:
Chief (Dr.) Legborsi Yamaabana
Spokesman, Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders Forum & President-General, Ogoni Youth Federation