The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has achieved a milestone in its mission to develop the Niger Delta region and empower its people as it attracts multiple partnership requests from global entities, including the European Union. The NDDC’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, announced this during a visit to the Ondo State Government House, where he was warmly received by the Acting Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
The success of the NDDC in gaining the confidence and trust of investors and stakeholders is attributed to its commitment to transparency and accountability in delivering its mandate. One of the key initiatives that have contributed to this accomplishment is the NDDC-HOPE initiative, which stands for Holistic Opportunity Projects of Engagement.
The NDDC-HOPE initiative aims to create a comprehensive database of all Niger Delta youths, women, and entrepreneurs who have genuine needs and aspirations that the NDDC’s programs and interventions can address. By doing so, the NDDC can directly reach out to the people in need without relying on politicians who may nominate their associates or relatives, even if they do not genuinely require the opportunities.
Dr. Ogbuku highlighted that the NDDC-HOPE initiative is also focused on creating 1,000 jobs per state through strategic partnerships and skill development. The NDDC has already joined forces with various organizations and institutions to provide training and mentorship in fields such as agriculture, ICT, renewable energy, fashion, arts, and crafts.
To ensure that the Niger Delta youths and women do not miss out on the opportunities offered by the NDDC, Dr. Ogbuku urged them to embrace the NDDC-HOPE initiative by registering for it online or through designated centers across the region. This initiative aims to provide beneficiaries with access to scholarships, skill acquisition programs, entrepreneurship development, employment opportunities, and empowerment.
Dr. Ogbuku expressed his gratitude to the Ondo State Government for its support and cooperation in completing the long-abandoned 132/33kv Okitipupa power substation. The successful completion of this project, which had been stagnant for over 13 years, will restore electricity to numerous communities in the area, significantly improving the lives of the people.
Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Acting Governor of Ondo State, commended the NDDC for its efforts in advancing the development of the Niger Delta region and uplifting its people’s livelihoods. He appreciated Dr. Ogbuku and his team for their dedication to completing the power substation project, which he described as a significant achievement for the state and the entire region.
The Acting Governor pledged his full support for the NDDC-HOPE initiative and encouraged all eligible Niger Deltans to register for it and benefit from the numerous programs and interventions offered by the NDDC.
Dr. Ogbuku reaffirmed the NDDC’s commitment to transforming the Niger Delta region into a peaceful and prosperous hub for all its inhabitants. The Commission’s strides in attracting global partnerships and launching the NDDC-HOPE initiative are seen as critical steps towards achieving this vision.
