For his exceptional and innovative leadership in managing the affairs of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and for setting a benchmark in driving development across the region, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has received an international recognition.
Ogbuku was awarded for his leadership and impact on regional development and named the Nigeria Regional Government Development Champion of the Year 2025 by the London Political Summit and Awards (LPSA).
A statement on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, by the Director, Corporate Affairs, Mr Seledi Thompson-Wakama, revealed that the award ceremony was held at the UK House of Commons in London during a special parliamentary session hosted by Hon. Oliver Ryan, MP for Burnley, and chaired by Prof. Kishan Devani BEM.
The prestigious award celebrates Ogbuku’s efforts in advancing sustainable development, governance, and innovation across Nigeria’s oil-producing communities in the Niger Delta.
In his message of appreciation, Ogbuku who was represented by Dr. Chris Ekam and Dr. Willie Etim, who received the award on his behalf, expressed gratitude to the organisers, stating that the international recognition affirms the positive changes being driven by the NDDC both within and outside Nigeria.
He noted that the award would further motivate the Commission’s board and management to intensify their commitment to delivering impactful and sustainable development projects.
Ogbuku also reiterated the agency’s focus on completing legacy infrastructure and investing in human capital development across the region.
Speaking at the event, the founder and convener of the London Political Summit, Mazi Godson Azu, highlighted the summit’s mission to foster dialogue, peace, and democratic partnerships between Africa, the Commonwealth, and the global political community.
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Azu described the summit as an important international platform that brings together political leaders, academics, innovators, and development partners to engage in meaningful discussions on governance, democracy, and sustainable development.
Other prominent award recipients at the event included former Kenyan Vice President, Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, and Mayor Paul Bristow.
