By Obas Esiedesa, Abuja

The Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) Limited on Thursday disclosed that it has entered into partnership with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to combat dishonest contractors and enforce discipline.

NDPHC’s Managing Director, Engr. Jennifer Adighije, disclosed the collaboration during a visit to EFCC Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, in Abuja, explaining that the partnership would enable the company to more effectively fulfill its mandate to Nigerians.

In a statement by the Technical Adviser to the NDPHC MD, Adesanya Adejo, Engr. Adighije stated that her management team was committed to strict regulatory compliance, legal adherence, and transparency. She highlighted her professional background, which spans both the private and public sectors, most recently in the procurement department of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

This experience, she noted, instilled in her a strong commitment to due process, which she plans to enforce rigorously at the NDPHC.

During her meeting with Olukoyede, the NDPHC head emphasized that her team’s visit aimed to familiarize themselves with the EFCC’s operations and seek guidance on maintaining compliance with applicable laws and regulations. She underscored the importance of the collaboration in tackling fraudulent contractors and enforcing discipline within the company.

Responding to the NDPHC delegation, the EFCC Chairman congratulated Engr. Adighije and her executive team on their recent appointments. He encouraged them to adhere to principles of integrity and accountability, describing public service as a “privilege that demands an unwavering commitment to probity.” He warned that corrupt practices by public officials would be scrutinized even after they leave office.

Olukoyede further emphasized that both EFCC and NDPHC play vital roles in addressing two of Nigeria’s pressing issues—corruption and power supply—both of which are essential for the country’s development.

“I advise you not to engage in anything you cannot defend in the future. We have seen instances where individuals are recalled years after leaving public office to answer for their actions. Positions of trust require utmost transparency and accountability. Addressing power and energy issues would resolve a substantial portion of Nigeria’s challenges. Addressing corruption would also contribute significantly to Nigeria’s progress,” he said.

Olukoyede praised the NDPHC’s efforts to enforce due process and regulatory compliance and assured the agency’s support if any NDPHC contractors fail to meet contractual obligations. He explained that the collaboration between EFCC and NDPHC would serve as a deterrent to dishonest contractors.

“If you have awarded contracts where performance has been lacking or if certain entities responsible for maintaining power stations have breached financial laws, procurement processes, or other regulations, please inform us,” Olukoyede stated.