Frequent Leadership Changes Responsible for Abandoned NDDC Projects – Goodluck Jonathan

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has blamed the high number of abandoned projects in the Niger Delta on the frequent leadership changes in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Speaking at the plenary session of the NDDC’s 25th anniversary celebration in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Jonathan noted that the commission has had 11 Chief Executive Officers in 25 years, averaging just over two years per leader — a situation he says hinders long-term project execution and planning.

“How can one plan or complete significant projects within two years and three months in office?” Jonathan asked.

He clarified that the abandoned projects were not due to negligence but rather the lack of continuity in leadership, which often disrupts planning-based development and leads to contractor-driven, short-term initiatives.

Jonathan praised President Bola Tinubu for retaining Dr. Samuel Ogbuku as NDDC Managing Director, calling it a sign of his commitment to regional development. He said the Niger Delta people are pleased because Ogbuku, appointed in 2022, has been allowed to continue under the current administration.

“If President Tinubu were not interested in developing the region, he would have removed him and appointed someone else,” he added.