The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has honoured its newly retired Directors and staff with service awards in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the Commission’s mandate of developing the Niger Delta region.
The ceremony, held at the NDDC Club House in Port Harcourt, celebrated the retirees for their dedication, loyalty, and years of meritorious service to the Commission and the nation.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, emphasized the importance of recognising those who played critical roles in advancing the Commission’s objectives.
Dr Ogbuku commended the retirees for their selfless service, describing the honour as a testament to the value the Commission places on commitment and integrity.
“It is a great honour to be recognised by one’s organisation. You have contributed immensely to the development of the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large,” he said.
He urged the retired Directors and staff to see themselves as ambassadors of the NDDC in their post-retirement engagements, adding that the Commission would continue to reward excellence and dedication.
“You have an institutional memory of the NDDC that is invaluable to those still in service. We will continue to tap into your wealth of experience by engaging some of you as consultants,” Ogbuku stated.
Also speaking, the Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, praised the retirees for their loyalty and professionalism, noting that their exit was purely a function of public service rules.
“You are not leaving because the Commission no longer needs you. Without your support, the Executive Management would not have performed optimally,” Iyaye said.
He added that the Commission would continue to rely on the retirees’ expertise as consultants and contractors, describing them as a rich repository of institutional knowledge.
Earlier, the retiring Director of Administration and Human Resources, Mr Patrick Ekade, described the ceremony as a celebration of service and hope, noting that the current management had taken deliberate steps to make the retirement process less stressful.
“The honour bestowed on retirees gives hope to those still in service. It is a celebration of hope for the retirees,” Ekade remarked.
Responding on behalf of the retirees, former Director of Project Monitoring and Supervision, Engr. Nelson Onwo, expressed gratitude to the NDDC Board and Management for recognising their contributions even after retirement.
He pledged continued support for the Commission whenever called upon.
“I am excited about retirement as it allows me to explore other areas of my life, but I will miss the warmth of the NDDC family,” Onwo said.
Also speaking, former Director of Education, Health and Social Services, Dr George Uzonwanne, described the NDDC as a wonderful family, adding that the Commission provided world-class training that prepared retirees for life beyond public service.
By Ndifreke Bassey