From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
The Committee of Friends of the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has organized an All Stars and Ex-international Football Match to celebrate his Golden Jubilee Birthday at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
The Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Alabo Boma Iyaye, represented by the pioneer APC Bayelsa State Chairman, Chief Timipa Tiwe Orunimighe Idowe, described 50 years as a milestone age and noted that celebrating Dr. Ogbuku with a football match is a mark of unity, reflecting his leadership style of unity in diversity.
The Committee Chairman commended Dr. Ogbuku’s leadership style, describing him as a man of proven integrity, receptive, accommodating, and a listening transformation leader who is in touch with the grassroots.
He noted that Dr. Ogbuku’s acceptance cuts across ethnic, religious, and political lines due to his non-partisan disposition in the administration of the NDDC.
The celebrant took the kick-off to signal the commencement of the Football Match, which featured Ijaws of Bayelsa All Stars against Ijaws of Port Harcourt All Stars, and Ex-internationals against Bayelsa All Stars.
The Ex-internationals, featuring legendary players such as Samson Siasia, Victor Ikpeba, and Kanu Nwankwo, showed class with good ball control.
In his vote of thanks, Dr. Ogbuku commended the Committee of Friends for choosing a football match to celebrate his Golden Jubilee Birthday, highlighting the role of sports, particularly football, as a unifying factor in the country.
He thanked President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve as the Managing Director of the NDDC and assured the President of the support of the people of the region in 2027.
Dr. Ogbuku also thanked Governor Douye Diri for his smooth working relationship with the NDDC and for ensuring that the Samson Siasia Stadium is put in proper shape for the celebration.
He appreciated the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, and other party chieftains, board members, and staff of the NDDC, traditional rulers, youth, and women groups for their support.
