Despite notable developmental milestones recorded in recent years, the Managing Director and CEO of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has conveyed assurances from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, that if re-elected in 2027, his administration will prioritize the Commission’s transformation agenda.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

According to NIVONEWS, Ogbuku made this known during a commemorative event in Owerri, Imo State, marking the NDDC’s 25th anniversary.

Ogbuku highlighted that over the past quarter-century, the NDDC had significantly impacted the region through the construction of roads, hospitals, bridges, street lighting, and educational support, including payment of tuition for students from the Niger Delta. He expressed optimism that in the next 50 years, the Commission would achieve even greater milestones for the benefit of the region and the nation at large.

According to NIVONEWS, the Chairman of the Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, in his address, commended the Imo State government and people for their unwavering support of the Commission and praised the 7th Governing Board for its dedication to fast-tracking development. He also welcomed guests to the Eastern Heartland and encouraged them to experience the warmth and hospitality of the state.

Dr. Kyrian Uchegbu, the Imo State Commissioner representing NDDC, affirmed that the Commission had evolved from its former self. He attributed the improvement to strong presidential backing and emphasized that agriculture would define the next phase of NDDC’s mission—ensuring regional food security and supply to other parts of Nigeria.

Otunba Dele Kelvin, former NACCIMA National President and keynote speaker, in his lecture titled “Encouraging Creativity and Innovation: Engaging Women and Youth in Entrepreneurship and Skills Development,” advocated for greater inclusion of women in NDDC’s workforce. He stressed that empowering women and young people would reduce exclusion and energize Nigeria’s socio-economic development.

Also speaking, Mrs. Chinyere Ordu, PhD, called for 60% of NDDC’s job opportunities to be allocated to women, including rural women and those living with disabilities. She emphasized that gender inclusion is vital for sustaining development in the Niger Delta.

Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, Chairman of the Senate Committee on NDDC, lauded President Tinubu’s support and urged the Commission to continue carrying women along in its operations. He praised the NDDC leadership for their efforts in transforming the region.

According to NIVONEWS, Deputy Governor of Imo State, Mrs. Chinyere Ekomaru, representing Governor Hope Uzodimma, revealed that over 40,000 youths had been trained under the Skills-Up Imo initiative supported by NDDC. She called for continued partnership on school rehabilitation, flood control, and drainage infrastructure in the state.

The event’s highlights included a choir performance, while dignitaries present ranged from traditional rulers like HRM Eze E.C. Okeke to senators from the five Southeast states, members of the Imo State House of Assembly, federal lawmakers, business leaders, and civil society groups.

”NIVONEWS REPORTS”