NDDC Can’t Complete Projects With Frequent Leadership Changes, Jonathan Laments

 Former President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed deep concern over the Niger Delta Development Commission’s (NDDC) inability to complete critical projects, attributing the stagnation to frequent leadership changes during the commission’s 25th anniversary celebrations on July 12, 2025, in Port Harcourt. 

Speaking at the grand finale event, Jonathan highlighted that the instability, with over 15 managing directors since 2000, has disrupted long-term planning, leaving over 14,000 projects abandoned across the nine oil-producing states. He urged the current board, led by Chiedu Ebie, to prioritize continuity to fulfill the NDDC’s mandate of sustainable development.

Jonathan, who established the NDDC during his tenure, cited the East-West Road and Okrika bridge as examples where leadership turnover halted progress, costing billions of naira. He praised recent efforts under President Bola Tinubu’s administration to stabilize the board but warned that without consistent leadership, economic gains in the region remain elusive. 

Stakeholders, including youth groups, echoed his sentiments, though some critics question the political motivations behind his remarks, given his past oversight of the commission. The event, attended by 500 dignitaries, underscored the need for reform.