The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has called on its Directorate of Legal Services (DLS) staff to embrace innovation, collaboration, and modern conflict resolution strategies to strengthen service delivery and accelerate the region’s sustainable development.
Speaking at the DLS annual retreat themed “Exploring Innovation for Effective Legal Service Delivery in the Public Sector,” held in Lagos, the Commission emphasized the importance of innovation in enhancing legal operations and driving institutional excellence.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Babatunde Ajibade (SAN) said the retreat aimed to build the capacity of NDDC legal personnel to deliver efficient and effective services in line with the Commission’s development goals.
He noted that the DLS plays a crucial role in ensuring legal integrity across NDDC’s focus areas — including infrastructure development, healthcare, education, agriculture, environmental management, and social welfare — and must be fully integrated into the Commission’s planning and implementation processes.
According to Ajibade, “Every aspect of the NDDC’s work has legal implications, from contract negotiations and project financing to regulatory compliance and dispute resolution. The DLS must ensure the Commission’s interests and those of the Niger Delta people are well protected while engaging external expertise when necessary.”
He further stressed the need for NDDC management to recognize the central role of the legal directorate in its operations, describing legal departments as “strategic partners in development” rather than cost centres.
In his address, Director of Legal Services, Victor Arenyeka, Esq., described the directorate as a cornerstone of the NDDC’s mission, responsible for upholding the Commission’s legal framework, ensuring contractual transparency, and fostering peaceful conflict resolution.
“As public officers, adopting new strategies is no longer optional but essential. This retreat offers us an opportunity to strengthen accountability, enhance teamwork, and reinforce the NDDC’s reputation for integrity and excellence,” Arenyeka stated.
He expressed appreciation to NDDC Managing Director/CEO, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, for his visionary leadership and support, as well as to the Executive Directors and planning committee for making the retreat successful.
Another keynote speaker, Dr. Innih Archibong, speaking on “Repositioning the Legal Services Department for Excellence: The Role of Paralegal Staff in Promoting the Cause of Justice,” emphasized that the legal services department is the ethical and operational nerve centre of any organization.
He urged DLS staff to ensure strict compliance with regulatory laws and internal policies, including those addressing contracts, finance, sexual harassment, and staff welfare.
“The legal department safeguards the institution’s life and reputation — both within its confines and in the court of public opinion,” he said.
The retreat concluded with a renewed commitment by participants to strengthen collaboration, adopt innovative approaches, and ensure that the NDDC continues to deliver effectively on its mandate to transform the Niger Delta region.
