The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has allocated N5 billion to the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce to support entrepreneurial skills training for women and children across the region. This initiative is aimed at improving their economic empowerment and fostering self-sufficiency.

Speaking at the 25th Anniversary and Women & Youth Conference held on Wednesday in Owerri, NDDC Managing Director and CEO, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, emphasized the commission’s evolution from a transactional entity to a transformation-driven agency over the past 25 years.

Ogbuku highlighted that sustainable structures are being established to uplift women and children in the Niger Delta. He revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Commission to prioritize agriculture, with plans to host a mini agricultural summit and retreat to develop a comprehensive roadmap for the region’s agricultural sector.

Encouraging women and youth to take advantage of the commission’s skills acquisition programmes, Ogbuku assured that President Tinubu remains closely involved in ensuring the commission delivers impactful results.

The NDDC CEO further stated that the anniversary event served to educate women and youth on the commission’s achievements since its creation and to seek their input for future direction. He also announced plans for a digital transition within the commission and promised that outstanding payments owed to eligible beneficiaries would soon be disbursed.

In a goodwill message, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. (Mrs.) Chinyere Ekomaru, applauded the NDDC for its contributions to infrastructure, especially in the construction and rehabilitation of schools, markets, hospitals, and other key public amenities.

Governor Uzodimma also urged the Commission to collaborate with the state on critical projects such as flood control, rural electrification, and the dredging of the Urashi River.

Adding his voice, Dr. Kyrian Uchegbu, the NDDC Commissioner representing Imo State, encouraged continuous collaboration between the Commission and state governments, particularly in youth development, agriculture, and infrastructure expansion.