N30 Billion for Youth Dreams: NDDC’s Bold Move to Transform the Niger Delta

By Achimi Muktar

In a groundbreaking announcement that has sent ripples of excitement across the Niger Delta, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) unveiled a massive N30 billion fund dedicated to nurturing young entrepreneurs in the region.

This initiative, revealed in a statement on Saturday, represents a pivotal step toward empowering the region’s youth and fostering economic growth. The fund will be channeled through the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines, and Agriculture (NDCCITMA), providing critical support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

A Vision for Empowerment

Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of the NDDC, highlighted the Commission’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment during a recent interview. “The government cannot employ everyone,” Dr. Ogbuku stated, “but we are dedicated to creating an enabling environment where entrepreneurship can thrive.”

Dr. Ogbuku emphasized the importance of vetting and supporting genuine business ventures to ensure the fund’s impact is maximized. He also shed light on the NDDC Youth Internship Scheme, which connects young people to organizations for practical, on-the-job training.

“Our consultant is streamlining the application process,” Dr. Ogbuku added, “ensuring that various skill areas will launch seamlessly by January 2025.”

Successful applicants will be notified shortly, marking the beginning of an initiative designed to drive economic growth, foster peace, and promote entrepreneurship in the Niger Delta.

Beyond Funding: A Comprehensive Approach

This N30 billion fund is just one of many initiatives undertaken by the NDDC to fulfill its mandate of youth empowerment and regional development. Since its establishment by the Federal Government in 2000, the NDDC has rolled out numerous programs targeting skill acquisition and infrastructure growth.

Earlier this year, the Commission announced its 2024/2025 Foreign Postgraduate Scholarship Programme for students from the Niger Delta. This program aims to equip young professionals with globally competitive skills in fields such as Engineering, Environmental Science, Medical Sciences, and Information Technology.

Additionally, in May 2024, the NDDC revealed plans to inaugurate 92 infrastructure projects valued at over N84 billion across five states. This ambitious agenda underscores the Commission’s commitment to building a region of economic prosperity and sustainable development.

A Brighter Future for the Niger Delta

As the NDDC’s N30 billion fund rolls out, expectations are high for the transformative impact it will have on the Niger Delta’s youth. By fostering entrepreneurship and providing structured support through NDCCITMA, the Commission aims to channel the energy and innovation of the region’s young minds toward meaningful ventures.

With its comprehensive approach to development, the NDDC continues to deliver on its promise of empowering the Niger Delta’s youth and building a future defined by opportunity and progress.