By Nkechi Eze
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) have agreed to strengthen collaboration aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusive development in the Niger Delta region.
According to an official signed statement by Demola Bakare, spokesperson for the ICPC, this renewed partnership was the outcome of a high-level meeting between the Chairman of ICPC, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, and the Managing Director of NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, held at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
Dr. Aliyu reaffirmed ICPC’s readiness to support the NDDC through transparency-driven initiatives, noting that the Commission would soon draft an anti-corruption Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize the inter-agency collaboration.
“Our partnership will serve as a platform to actualize Chapter Two of the Constitution, which places on the state the responsibility to promote social order and public welfare,” the ICPC Chairman said.
He also commended the NDDC’s recent efforts in delivering infrastructure and essential services to communities across the Niger Delta. Dr. Aliyu pledged the Commission’s continued support through its public enlightenment mandate, particularly in sensitizing rural communities on anti-corruption and good governance.
In his remarks, Dr. Ogbuku emphasized the NDDC’s commitment to stakeholder engagement through its “Partners for Sustainable Development” initiative, which brings together state governments, International Oil Companies (IOCs), and host communities to ensure inclusive project planning and budgeting.
He also highlighted key infrastructural achievements, including the electrification of five local government areas and the completion of strategic projects such as the Obvia Neve Road and the Ataba-Agbarho Road. These, he noted, are part of efforts to close decades-long infrastructure gaps in the region.
Both agencies also expressed commitment to the forthcoming celebration of the NDDC’s 25th anniversary a milestone that will be used to reflect on institutional growth, showcase achievements, and articulate future development strategies.
The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to fight corruption, improve service delivery, and advance a development agenda that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of the people of the Niger Delta.
