The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has been conferred with an Award of Excellence and Outstanding Leadership for his execution of sustainable developmental projects in the Niger Delta region.
The President and Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Management, NIM, (Chartered), Dr. (Mrs.) Christiana Atako, recently presented the award of outstanding leadership to the NDDC boss at the End-of-Year Lecture and Award Night of the NDDC Chapter of the Institute. She praised Ogbuku for his efforts in fostering professional excellence and contributing to the development of Nigeria.
Atako further explained that the award recognizes his efforts in evenly transforming the Niger Delta region, emphasizing that leadership is not just about authority but about vision, influence, and responsibility to the people, the nation, and the global community. She highlighted that leadership involves the process of influencing, motivating, and inspiring individuals or teams to achieve a shared vision, goal, or objective, which is central to the management profession. She also applauded Ogbuku for leading with purpose and distinction.
According to Atako, the theme of the lecture, “Leadership: A Panacea for Sustainable Development in a Digital Age,” was not only contemporary and germane but also timely and compelling. She revealed that effective leadership is key to witnessing sustainable development in a digital age.
In her words: “It challenges us to explore the intersections of leadership, sustainable development, and the transformative impact of digital technology on governance and organizational practices.
“Effective leadership involves vision, which entails clearly articulating a compelling direction; inspiring and motivating others to work towards a shared vision; building trust, credibility, and influence to guide and direct others; and making informed, timely, and decisive decisions that support the vision and goals.
“It is about effectively communicating the vision, goals, and expectations to stakeholders; demonstrating self-awareness, empathy, and social skills to build strong relationships; developing and empowering others to achieve their full potential; and taking ownership and responsibility for actions, decisions, and outcomes.
“As we navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world, it is clear that the quality of leadership will determine our capacity to achieve the sustainable development goals we aspire to.”
However, she announced that sustainable development demands forward-thinking, inclusive, and resilient leaders, adding: “It requires integrating economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection into the policies and practices of our organizations and institutions.”
In the same vein, the NDDC Chapter Chairman of NIM, Dr. Patience Ezugu, in her welcome address, applauded the visionary leadership of Dr. Ogbuku, describing him as a “Transformational Leader.”
She emphasized that the theme of the lecture underscored the importance of effective leadership in achieving sustainable development worldwide, while stressing the significance of good leadership and professional management as vital for success in any organization.
“They provide vision, direction, and guidance, inspire employees, drive growth and innovation, and build a positive work culture,” she said.
Also speaking, the keynote speaker, a Food Science and Technology professor at Rivers State University, Prof. Joy Eke-Ejiofor, hinted at the possibility of a country like Nigeria and beyond attaining sustainable development, provided leaders are prepared to rise to the challenges of the digital age.
Adding more input on the differences between leadership and management, Eke-Ejiofor assured that effective leadership commands good performance, emphasizing that leadership is not defined by titles or positions but by positively impacting society.
“The digital age presents unparalleled opportunities for leaders to innovate and drive sustainable development. Digital technology has revolutionized how we live, work, and interact, offering tools to enhance efficiency, transparency, and inclusivity,” she stated.
