The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has introduced a N30 billion fund to enhance entrepreneurship among youths in the Niger Delta region.
Partnership with NDCCITMA
According to a statement released on Saturday, the fund will be managed by the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines, and Agriculture (NDCCITMA). This collaboration aims to provide financial and infrastructural support to young entrepreneurs.
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of the NDDC, shared these developments during a recent interview. He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to youth empowerment through economic initiatives, emphasizing training and assistance for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Support for Genuine Enterprises
Dr. Ogbuku highlighted the significance of supporting legitimate businesses. He stated that while direct government employment is limited, the initiative is designed to create an environment conducive to entrepreneurship.
Additionally, he outlined the NDDC Youth Internship Scheme, a program that links young people with organizations to acquire practical job skills.
“The consultant managing the application process is ensuring a streamlined entry system for the program’s official rollout by January 2025,” the statement confirmed.
The NDDC assured applicants that notifications for successful entries would be sent out soon.
Promoting Regional Growth and Stability
This initiative is designed to promote peace and economic stability in the Niger Delta by equipping youths with resources and opportunities to engage in meaningful ventures. NDCCITMA will provide structured support to help entrepreneurs achieve sustainable growth.
About the NDDC
Established by the Federal Government in 2000, the NDDC’s primary objective is to drive development in the South-South region, with youth empowerment as a key focus.
Over the years, the Commission has rolled out several initiatives to support this mandate:
- Foreign Postgraduate Scholarship Programme: Introduced in April 2024, this scheme provides scholarships to equip young professionals with skills for local and global competitiveness in fields like Agricultural Science, Engineering, IT, and Law.
- Infrastructure Development: In May 2024, the NDDC announced plans to commission 92 infrastructure projects worth over N84 billion across five states.
A Vision for Holistic Development
The NDDC remains committed to transforming the Niger Delta into a hub of economic growth and prosperity. As part of its mission, the Commission is deploying innovative strategies to ensure the sustainable development of the region.
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