The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku has expressed his gratitude to the Senate for Tuesday’s passage of the commission’s 2023 budget.
The Senate had earlier stood down consideration of the budget and requested further information and clarification on NDDC’s financial activities for the 2021 and 2022 budget estimates.
In a statement on Tuesday, Ogbuku said that the budget passage was a significant milestone in developing the Niger Delta region. He said the budget, which amounted to N876 billion, would enable the NDDC to continue providing critical infrastructure and services to the region’s people.
“We are grateful to the Senate for their support and commitment to developing the Niger Delta region. The passage of this budget will enable us to continue providing critical infrastructure and services to the region’s people”, the NDDC helmsman said.
Ogbuku also pledged to ensure that the funds allocated in the budget are used judiciously with due process applied. He said that the NDDC would work tirelessly to ensure that its projects are completed on time and to the highest standards.
“We are committed to ensuring that every kobo allocated in this budget is used for its intended purpose. We will work tirelessly to ensure that our projects are completed on time and to the highest standards”, Ogbuku said.
He also called on all stakeholders in the Niger Delta region to support the NDDC in its efforts to develop the region, adding that the commission needed help, and the support and cooperation of all stakeholders in the region to achieve its goals. He said that together, they could build a better future for their people.
“We cannot do this alone. We need the support and cooperation of all stakeholders in the Niger Delta region to achieve our goals. Together, we can build a better future for our people”, Ogbuku said.
Last week, Ogbuku cleared the air over the Senate’s probe of its budgets for 2021 and 2022. He had urged the public to avoid jumping to conclusions based on the Senate’s decision and assured them of the NDDC’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
He had also said that he respected the oversight function of the Senate and was ready to cooperate with the investigation committee.
