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Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has charged all workers in the commission to always uphold and promote peace, transparency, accountability and global best practices.
The NDDC boss made this statement during a sensitisation programme with the theme, “Promoting Transparency and Due Process in the Workplace: Deploying Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Approaches in Building a Culture of Accountability and Integrity,” organised by the Commission’s Department of Dispute and Conflict Resolution in Port Harcourt.
He stated that the programme was designed to promote a culture of transparency, accountability and integrity within the NDDC, as well as to equip staff members with the requisite skills and knowledge needed to resolve conflicts and disputes in a fair, effective and efficient manner.
Dr. Ogbuku, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Rev Julius Oworibo, highlighted the need for a peaceful work environment, noting that conflicts could hinder the commission’s developmental efforts.
He explained that the commission was promoting Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms as a means of resolving conflicts and maintaining peace in the workplace.
“ADR is a critical tool in achieving a lot in the Commission. Transparency entails being open about how decisions are made in the workplace. Through due process, the rights of staff are protected and trust is fostered in the Commission.”
Dr. Ogbuku emphasised that ADR mechanisms, including mediation and facilitation, can be used to reduce tension in the workplace and foster a culture of accountability and integrity.
“Over time, this approach fosters a workplace where integrity, fairness and trust are the norm and are at the forefront of fulfilling our mandate in the region. We are a team. To make a difference, fairness must be established across the board. ADR is not just about solving problems; it is ensuring that these are a part of our everyday work life,” Dr. Ogbuku stated.
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Also, the NDDC’s acting Director of Dispute and Conflict Resolution, Godwin Ogedegbe, reiterated that alternative dispute resolution was critical to achieving the Commission’s vision.
“The theme of this programme captures the core of what we seek to achieve in our Commission; a workplace where every action is expected to be guided by openness, fairness and a steadfast commitment to due process,” he said.
Professor Sylvester Odion-Akhaine, Founder of the Centre for Constitutionalism and Demilitarisation (CENCOD), underlined the importance of due process in the workplace.
“The importance of due process, transparency, integrity and accountability in the workplace cannot be overemphasized. It is healthy for productivity and achievement of organisational goals,” he said.
On his part, Professor Fidelis Allen, Director of the Centre for Politics, University of Port Harcourt, highlighted the effectiveness of ADR in promoting transparent and accountable governance within organisations.
“ADR enhances transparent and accountable governance within organisations by promoting open dialogue, fostering a culture of responsibility and implementing accountability protocols,” he noted.
Dr. Olugbenga Gbarada, chief executive officer of the Dispute Resolution Academy, emphasised the need for institutions like the NDDC to uphold fairness by building strong systems.
“Leaders foster trust through ethical conduct when they create the foundation for ADR to become a bridge toward inclusive governance, ethical decision-making and lasting peace,” he said.
