The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has emphasized the role of stakeholder engagement in advancing development across the Niger Delta region.
Ogbuku explained that stakeholder collaboration was essential for aligning development projects with the needs of the people, adding that this inclusive approach supports the Federal Government’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
He stated this on Friday, October 10, 2025, while delivering a keynote address at the opening of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Rivers State Public Relations Week in Port Harcourt.
The NDDC MD who was represented by the Commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mrs. Seledi Thompson-Wakama, highlighted the significance of reputation management and the critical contribution of NIPR to shaping a positive national image.
Ogbuku noted that the theme of the event, “Refocusing Stakeholder Engagement and Public Trust in a Challenging Economy,” aligns closely with NDDC’s strategy of fostering transparency and building public trust through collaboration.
His words: “We realise that it is crucial to build trust with all partners to get their buy-in and win their confidence. In this respect, we have established processes to ensure that a new institutional culture, anchored in sound ethics and good corporate governance, is in place.
“We are working with KPMG, a reputable global business consultancy, which has reviewed our processes to strengthen our corporate governance system.
“We now have a robust corporate governance structure that fosters accountability and transparency, backed by a clear and measurable set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track progress toward goals.”
He revealed that the Commission is working with global consultancy firm KPMG to strengthen its internal processes.
According to him, this collaboration has led to a more robust corporate governance framework, including measurable Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track progress and ensure accountability.
Ogbuku emphasized that this renewed focus on stakeholder engagement reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s development policy, which prioritizes inclusivity and partnership.
“Through engagement, the NDDC aims to foster partnerships to leverage collective strengths, overcome challenges, and avoid working at cross-purposes.”
Earlier, Chairman of the NIPR Rivers State Chapter, Rev. Francis Asuk, stressed the importance of strategic communication in governance and peace building.
“The time has come for our leaders, both in government and the private sector, to engage professional public relations practitioners in managing and communicating through sensitive issues.
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“The expertise of PR professionals in stakeholder mapping, perception management, conflict resolution, and narrative framing can make a crucial difference in restoring confidence, bridging divides, and shaping a more stable and progressive Rivers State.”
Asuk expressed concern over declining public trust across Nigeria and globally, citing economic instability, misinformation, and institutional fatigue as contributing factors.
“Economic challenges, misinformation, and institutional fatigue have tested the resilience of governments, businesses, and communities alike. In such a time, the role of the public relations professional becomes indispensable to rebuild confidence, restore truth, and facilitate transparent engagement that drives collective progress.”
