The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has made a significant move to empower the youth of the Niger Delta region, announcing a ₦30 billion fund aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth.
This initiative, which will be executed through the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines, and Agriculture (NDCCITMA), underscores the Commission’s commitment to equipping young people with the tools to thrive economically.
Speaking about the fund, NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, described it as a step towards creating a sustainable future for the region. “We recognize the potential of our youth as the drivers of change and economic prosperity in the Niger Delta,” Dr. Ogbuku said during a recent interview.
A Platform for Genuine Businesses
Dr. Ogbuku emphasized the importance of ensuring that only credible businesses benefit from the initiative. “We are committed to verifying and documenting support for genuine businesses because our goal is to foster lasting growth. The government cannot employ everyone, but it can create an enabling environment for entrepreneurship to flourish,” he remarked.
The fund complements other youth-focused programs, such as the NDDC Youth Internship Scheme, which pairs young individuals with organizations for on-the-job training. “The consultant managing the application process is working to ensure a smooth and coordinated launch of various skill areas by January 2025,” the NDDC statement read.
Fostering Growth Amid Challenges
The Niger Delta region has long grappled with economic and developmental challenges, despite being Nigeria’s oil-rich heartland. By targeting youth empowerment, the NDDC seeks to address these issues head-on, promoting peace and prosperity.
According to the NDDC, successful applicants will soon receive notifications about their eligibility for the fund. This is part of a broader strategy to engage the youth in meaningful ventures, reduce unemployment, and encourage self-reliance.
Building on a Legacy of Empowerment
The NDDC, established in 2000 to drive development in the South-South region, has a history of youth-focused initiatives. From scholarships to infrastructure development, the Commission has continually sought to uplift the Niger Delta’s young population.
In April 2024, the Commission announced its Foreign Postgraduate Scholarship Programme for the 2024/2025 academic session. The scheme aimed to develop human capital by equipping young people with advanced training to participate in the Federal Government’s local content initiatives. Fields such as Agricultural Science, Engineering, Environmental Science, and Information Technology were prioritized, reflecting a commitment to global competitiveness.
A statement on the program read: “The scholarship is designed to enable young people to specialize in their fields of study and compete on a global scale.”
Infrastructure Projects and Regional Development
Beyond youth empowerment, the NDDC has also been at the forefront of infrastructure development. In May 2024, the Commission revealed plans to inaugurate 92 projects valued at over ₦84 billion within five states.
Highlighting the Commission’s comprehensive approach, Mr. Pius Ughakpoteni, NDDC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, said: “Our roadmap ensures the holistic and sustainable development of the Niger Delta, transforming it into a region of economic prosperity.”
These projects ranged from road construction to water supply initiatives, aimed at addressing critical infrastructural gaps across the region.
Driving Peace Through Opportunity
The new ₦30 billion fund aligns with NDDC’s vision of peacebuilding through economic opportunity. By equipping young entrepreneurs with resources and training, the Commission hopes to reduce restiveness in the Niger Delta, a region historically plagued by conflict over resource control and environmental degradation.
Dr. Ogbuku reiterated this commitment: “Engaging youths in productive ventures is crucial to fostering peace and stability in the region. This initiative is not just about economic growth but also about securing a brighter future for everyone.”
Looking Ahead
As the fund prepares for a January 2025 launch, anticipation is high among stakeholders and aspiring entrepreneurs. The NDDC’s approach of involving NDCCITMA ensures that the private sector plays a significant role, fostering collaboration and innovation.
For many in the Niger Delta, this represents a turning point. “This fund is a lifeline,” said Boma Tekena, a young entrepreneur in Rivers State. “It’s an opportunity for us to grow our businesses and contribute meaningfully to our communities.”
