The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has announced a N30 billion initiative to support youth entrepreneurship in the Niger Delta region. The fund, revealed on Saturday, will be managed by the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines, and Agriculture (NDCCITMA).
NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, highlighted the Commission’s commitment to empowering youths through economic initiatives such as training and support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). He emphasized the importance of verifying and supporting genuine businesses, noting that while government jobs are limited, creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurship is essential for economic growth.
The NDDC Youth Internship Scheme, also introduced by Dr. Ogbuku, aims to provide practical skills by connecting young people with organizations for on-the-job training. The application process is being streamlined to ensure the program is ready for launch by January 2025, with successful applicants set to be notified soon.
This initiative is part of the NDDC’s broader strategy to drive economic growth and peace in the Niger Delta by engaging youths in productive ventures. Since its establishment in 2000, the NDDC has focused on development and empowerment, implementing various programs to enhance human capacity and infrastructure across the region. The latest effort builds on this legacy, aiming to transform the Niger Delta into a region of economic prosperity.
