The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to human capacity development, particularly by equipping the staff of the Directorate of Project Monitoring and Supervision, PMS, with the skills and knowledge required for effective service delivery.

Speaking during a two-day workshop for the staff, the Director of Project Monitoring and Supervision, Engr. Gbenga Omowanle, described the workshop as a refresher course and induction programme for old and new staff. He explained that the training was designed to acquaint participants with the fundamental principles of PMS operations and the Commission's monitoring procedures.

According to him, every staff member in the Directorate must understand the step-by-step approach required for effective project monitoring within the Commission. He added that the training would also strengthen the integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality expected of staff while carrying out their duties.

Omowanle expressed appreciation to the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, for approving the workshop, titled: “Building Competence for Effective Project Oversight and Development Outcomes,” for the benefit of staff in the Project Monitoring and Supervision Directorate.

In his remarks, the Lead Consultant for the training, Mr Dagogo Tolofari, emphasised that PMS staff play a crucial role in monitoring infrastructural projects executed by the Commission. He noted that engineers involved in project supervision must be equipped with modern technology and the technical know-how needed for effective quality monitoring.

Tolofari further stated that the workshop would expose participants to field realities and some of the strategies commonly employed by contractors. He added that the training would equip staff with modern tools and contemporary monitoring techniques while ensuring the quality of NDDC projects is maintained.

Delivering a lecture on “Ethical Issues in Supervision,” a resource person, Dr Dada Joseph, identified unethical conduct as one of the major challenges confronting project monitoring. He stressed that the PMS Directorate remained critical to the success of the NDDC and urged staff to always uphold integrity in discharging their responsibilities.

He stated: “Corruption exists everywhere in the world, but for us as a developing country, it remains a serious challenge. As staff of the PMS Directorate, document exactly what you observe in the field and submit your findings appropriately. Do not compromise. Contractors may attempt to influence you, but once you understand that your first loyalty is to the NDDC, you will always do the right thing,” he stated.

One of the participants, Engr. Akpekpe Jairus said the training had given the participants deeper insight into tracking NDDC projects. He noted that before now, PMS staff in state offices usually travelled to the headquarters to obtain project information, but with the introduction of the Project Monitoring Information System, PMIS, staff could now track projects from any location.

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