In a bid to address the multifaceted challenges facing the Niger Delta region and drive its sustainable development, the Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Samuel Ogbuku, has called on newly appointed Directors to show unwavering commitment.
Ogbuku conveyed this advice during a two-week course on leadership and performance management for directing staff of the NDDC, which took place in Abuja. The course was organized by the Human Resource Department of the commission in collaboration with the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON).
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Rev. Obegha Oworibo, Chief Samuel Ogbuku emphasized that the Niger Delta region faces a multitude of challenges, ranging from infrastructure deficits to environmental concerns and socio-economic disparities. He urged the new directors to lead with confidence, competence, integrity, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to the people of the region.
Ogbuku highlighted the significance of the immersive learning experience, which he believes will equip the new directors with the skills and insights required to lead effectively. He emphasized that the NDDC’s mission is to facilitate the sustainable development of the Niger Delta, and their leadership is pivotal to achieving this goal.
Furthermore, Chief Ogbuku urged the new directors to embrace innovation and collaboration as essential tools for progress. He emphasized the importance of championing inclusivity and diversity within their teams, as diverse perspectives often lead to the best solutions. He also congratulated them on their transition from deputy directors to directors and commended ASCON for its continued support.
The Director-General of ASCON, Mrs. Cecilia Gayya, explained that the course’s broad objective was to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance the performance of directing staff in the NDDC. It aimed to broaden the intellectual scope of participants, develop their analytical and problem-solving capabilities, and enable them to anticipate and respond to the rapid socio-economic changes in today’s work environment.
Gayya stressed that the course would equip participants with leadership and human relations skills and provide a platform for them to exchange ideas on management and leadership challenges.
In conclusion, Mrs. Cecilia Gayya emphasized that the current economic challenges serve as a wake-up call for Nigerians to adopt innovative and creative approaches to managing public resources. She highlighted the importance of effective leadership and performance management skills for strategic managers at the NDDC and underscored the value of continuous training and re-training.
