Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr.Felix Omatsola Ogbe joined a host of dignitaries from across Nigeria to pay his last respects to Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, the revered elder statesman and founder of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF).
The funeral ceremony took place in Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, marking a solemn moment to honour Clark’s remarkable legacy.
The executive secretary was accompanied by Mr. Isaac Yalah, NCDMB’s Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, as they joined others in reflecting on the life of a true nationalist.
The occasion drew prominent figures, including Senator George Akume, representing President Bola Tinubu, former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
Their presence underscored the widespread admiration for Clark’s contributions to Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.
The ceremony witnessed a confetti of tributes in celebration of his lifelong commitment to justice, equity, and national unity, values that resonated deeply with attendees.
The NCDMB boss described Clark as an unwavering advocate for local content, education, philanthropy, and statesmanship. He emphasized that Clark’s efforts in advancing the Niger Delta’s development and Nigeria’s broader progress would remain etched in history.
Ogbe highlighted Clark’s influence as a guiding light for initiatives that prioritize community integration and sustainable growth in the oil and gas sector.
The NCDMB’s mission, Ogbe noted, aligned closely with Clark’s ideals, particularly in empowering oil-producing communities through inclusion in the industry’s value chain.
This synergy reflects Clark’s vision of economic empowerment and regional development.
Ogbe’s remarks underscored how Clark’s legacy continues to inspire the Board’s policies and programs aimed at fostering local participation.
Ogbe reaffirmed NCDMB’s commitment to sustaining Clark’s legacies through diligent implementation of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act.
He said that the Board would continue to champion local content and drive initiatives that uplift the Niger Delta, ensuring Clark’s vision endures.
This pledge resonated as a fitting tribute to a man whose life was dedicated to the betterment of his people.
The funeral was a poignant celebration of Pa Edwin Clark’s extraordinary life, with tributes echoing his role as a bridge-builder and patriot. The gathering of leaders from various spheres of Nigerian society was a testament to his far-reaching impact.
For Ogbe and the NCDMB, the event was both a moment of reflection and a renewed call to advance Clark’s enduring ideals for a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.
