Joe Adia Calls for Balanced Approach to NDDC Payments and Programmes

Joe Adia, Founder of the Contractors Association of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has called on the Commission to strike a deliberate balance between programme execution and the settlement of outstanding payments owed to contractors.
According to Adia, while programmes are important for institutional growth and visibility, they should not take precedence over payments due to contractors who have completed projects for the Commission over the years. He noted that many contractors relied on bank loans and other financial commitments to execute these projects, and prolonged delays in payment have continued to strain their businesses and livelihoods.
“Regular and structured monthly payments to contractors restore hope, stability, and confidence—not just for the contractors, but for the Niger Delta region as a whole,” Adia stated. He emphasized that prompt payment would significantly reduce tension and uncertainty within the system.
Adia clarified that his remarks should not be interpreted as criticism of the Managing Director of the NDDC, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, whom he acknowledged as making genuine efforts in leading the Commission. However, he stressed the need for a more balanced approach.
He further explained that prioritising contractor payments before programmes would create calm and transparency, eliminating any public perception that funds meant for contractor payments are being diverted to programmes.
Expressing concern over the frequency of recent programmes held across several states—including Port Harcourt, Uyo, Ondo, Asaba, Owerri, and Bayelsa—Adia questioned their tangible impact. “With the volume of programmes conducted lately, it is important to ask: what visible, physical outcomes have been achieved from most of them?” he queried.
He concluded by urging the Commission to refocus on its core mandate of development through completed and paid-for projects, noting that a balanced financial and operational strategy would foster trust, accountability, and sustainable development in the Niger Delta.