NDDC Launches Digital Contract System to Stop Fake Award Letters

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has fully digitized its contract award process in a major move aimed at tackling forged documents, improving transparency, and shielding its officials from repeated investigations by anti-graft agencies.

Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, announced the reform in Port Harcourt during a capacity-building programme on public procurement for the commission’s executive management and directors.

According to Ogbuku, the new digital procurement system is designed to close loopholes that have long been exploited by fraudsters who produce fake contract award letters and clone official NDDC portals. These fraudulent activities have previously triggered investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), with several directors and genuine contractors drawn into inquiries over projects they had no involvement in.

The commission says the digitization drive is part of broader efforts to strengthen accountability, protect public funds, and ensure that only legitimate contracts are recognised.

Under the new system, all authentic contract award letters will be issued on specially secured paper embedded with serial tracking numbers and QR codes for instant verification. The commission also announced that only the Director of Procurement has the authority to issue valid contract award letters, declaring any documents originating from unauthorized committees or individuals invalid.

NDDC further stated that procurement planning will now be tied strictly to annual regional needs assessments to ensure projects address genuine developmental priorities rather than unverified contractor proposals.

A key component of the reform is the introduction of an e-procurement portal, which is expected to reduce paperwork, eliminate unnecessary delays, improve transparency, and create a complete digital audit trail for every contract awarded.

Dr Ogbuku urged directors to ensure that every procurement request aligns with approved annual budgets and the commission’s development priorities.

He noted that the digitized system will not only protect officials from fraudulent documentation but also guarantee that intervention funds are directed toward genuine infrastructure and development projects across the Niger Delta.

The NDDC believes the reforms will strengthen public confidence in its procurement process while reducing opportunities for fraud, document forgery, and contract-related disputes.