In a landmark moment celebrating leadership and community service, Chief Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has been honored with the prestigious First News Award of Excellence.
This recognition was bestowed upon him in acknowledgment of his remarkable efforts to revolutionize healthcare delivery in the Niger Delta through an impactful free medical outreach program.
The award was presented to Dr. Ogbuku during the 4th Anniversary celebration of First News, which also featured a public lecture on Niger Delta development. Although absent at the event, Dr. Ogbuku received the award later and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the management of First News.
In his message of appreciation, he thanked the team for recognizing both his work and the collective efforts of the NDDC in fostering sustainable development in the region.
“This recognition serves as a reminder that our work at the NDDC is being noticed and appreciated. I am grateful to the team at First News for this honor,” Ogbuku said.
Dr. Ogbuku’s free medical outreach program has transformed healthcare access in the Niger Delta, providing critical services to communities that have long suffered from inadequate health infrastructure. From common treatments to complex surgeries for conditions like fibroids and eye problems, the outreach has become a beacon of hope for thousands.
The reintroduction of the free medical outreach, after years of suspension, has been widely applauded, cementing Dr. Ogbuku’s reputation as a leader dedicated to improving the lives of his people. Under his leadership, the NDDC has revitalized its role in the Niger Delta, launching various initiatives, including overseas scholarships, youth internships, and the ambitious “Operation Light Up the Niger Delta.”
The First News 4th Public Lecture, held as part of the anniversary event, focused on the future of the Niger Delta beyond oil dependency. It explored innovative solutions for economic diversification, aimed at sustaining long-term development in the region. The discussions were centered on finding new paths for growth while maintaining the region’s environmental and social balance.
As Dr. Ogbuku’s leadership continues to drive progress in the Niger Delta, his receipt of the First News Award of Excellence stands as a testament to his vision for a healthier, more prosperous region.
With ongoing initiatives like the free medical outreach, Dr. Ogbuku is ensuring that the people of the Niger Delta not only receive immediate healthcare relief but also experience lasting benefits for their well-being.