Oil & Energy
FG Sets Up Panel To Probe NDDC
President Goodluck Jonathan has approved the constitution of a Presidential Committee to look into the problems hindering the operations of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
This was contained in statement issued by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim, in Abuja on Wednesday.
The statement named, Mr Steve Oronsaye as chairman of the committee, while Messrs Bamidele Aturu, and B. O. N. Oti; a representative of the Bureau for Public Procurement, and Sen. Bassey Ewa- Henshaw, are members.
Other members are, Mrs Koripamo-Agari and Alhaji Mohammed Ibrahim, while Mr Raymond Brown of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, will serve as secretary.
The statement said the committee was to assess and evaluate a sample inventory of some NDDC projects and evaluate the contractors’ pre-qualification process and the roles and relationship of the board, management and staff of the commission.
It is also to evaluate the procurement practices of the commission and its compliance with the letter and spirit of the Public Procurement Act.
Others are to evaluate the institutionalisation of the orientation of personnel of the commission at all levels, in order to inform and manage expectations.
It is also to evaluate fund management and other variables, including check and balances that can be improved upon so as to strengthen the commission.
The committee is also charged with evaluating compliance or otherwise, with the Public Service Rules and extant Civil Service Rules and Regulations.
The committee is expected to make recommendations to government in its bid to address institutional weaknesses and guide its constructive intervention on issues.
The committee was given two weeks to conclude its assignment.
As part of the restructuring, the company said it had promoted high-performing employees, released retiring staff, and disengaged others whose performance fell below expected standards.
It added that it has also begun implementing a comprehensive employee development and customer management plan to strengthen its service delivery framework.
“In line with its corporate transformation strategy, Abuja Electricity Distribution Company has announced a restructuring exercise aimed at delivering improved services to its customers as well as enhanced operational efficiency and excellence.
“The restructuring is in line with our strategic direction to become a more responsive and efficient organisation, capable of delivering world-class service to our customers.
“As part of the transformation, the Company has promoted high-performing staff, released retiring employees and those performing below par, and has put in motion the implementation of a robust employee development and customer management plan aimed at driving AEDC’s customer-centric focus,” the company said.
AEDC noted that the reforms are part of its broader commitment to provide reliable, safe, and sustainable electricity to customers across its franchise areas, including the Federal Capital Territory and the states of Niger, Kogi, and Nasarawa.
The firm further pledged to continue investing in infrastructure upgrades, digital technologies, and operational innovations to improve service reliability and customer satisfaction.
“With a strong commitment to delighting its customers, AEDC continues to contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria’s energy sector through investments in infrastructure, innovative technologies, and sustainable practices.
“AEDC consistently seeks to improve the quality of life for its customers, promote efficient energy usage, and actively engage with its communities,” the statement added.
Nwoko who is also the Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, said that forensic reviews show over S22b, S81b and S200b remained unaccounted for across different audit periods.
“I remain committed, alongside my colleagues, to ensuring accountability, recovery, and reform within the oil and gas sector.
Nwoko stated that the Committee had earlier presented its interim report before the senate saying “Our investigation has so far uncovered massive revenue losses amounting to over $300 billion in unaccounted crude oil proceeds over the years.
“This represents one of the most troubling cases of economic sabotage our nation has ever faced.
“We have made far-reaching recommendations to end this long-standing menace.
“There is need for strict enforcement of international crude oil measurement standards at all production and export points.
He urged the federal government to mandate the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to deploy modern, tamper-proof measuring technology or return this function to the Department of Weights and Measures under the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment.
The senator called for the deployment of advanced surveillance systems, including drones, to assist security agencies in combating oil theft.
He also called for the creation of a Special Court for Crude Oil Theft to ensure swift prosecution of offenders and their collaborators, saying it would also go a long way in tackling the challenge.
“We must also ensure the full implementation of the Host Communities Development Trust Fund under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to empower local communities and reduce sabotage.
“Ceding abandoned oil wells to the NUPRC for allocation to modular refineries to support local production and job creation is also very vital in fighting the menace of oil theft and sabotage,” Nwoko further said.