The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has restated its commitment to expanding interventions in the Niger Delta region to empower individuals, improve livelihoods, and promote development.

Speaking during the presentation of relief materials to the Omuma-Uzor community in Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said that the initiative represents the Commission’s commitment to addressing the economic difficulties facing many households in the Niger Delta region.

The NDDC boss, who was represented by the NDDC Director II, Education, Health and Social Services, Engr. Jeremiah Oritsejolone, stated that “The NDDC remains committed to expanding interventions that empower individuals, strengthen livelihoods and promote inclusive development. Beneficiaries are encouraged to make responsible use of these items to benefit their households.”

Ogbuku noted that the rising cost of living and limited access to basic necessities had placed significant pressure on households, especially in rural communities. “The NDDC continues to implement targeted interventions aimed at providing relief and supporting vulnerable populations,” he said.

Speaking further, the NDDC boss called on beneficiary communities to uphold peace and cooperate with government development agencies on development initiatives.

He added: “This event reinforces a fundamental principle that governance must be people-centred, responsive and compassionate.”

The NDDC Director, Abia State office, Dr Anderson Ukeh, advised the indigenes of the community to be law-abiding, obedient and dedicated. Anderson, who was represented by a Principal Manager, Mrs Ijeoma Offor, also advised them to conduct themselves well while sharing the relief materials.

The Deputy Director, Education, Health and Social Services, Dr Chioma Nwakwue, urged the community to be peaceful, cooperative, and loving as they share the relief materials. She also expressed gratitude for their show of love and support for the NDDC.

Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Omuma-Uzor community, Elder Felix Nwogu, commended the NDDC for responding to the community’s plea for assistance. We are truly grateful to the NDDC for this laudable intervention.

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has commenced an emergency upgrade of the electricity supply to its headquarters complex by formally handing over the project to Income Electrix, an integrated power company.

Speaking during the handover ceremony at the NDDC headquarters, the Director of Community and Rural Development, CRD, Engr. Theophilus Alagoa, said that the project was an emergency intervention designed to connect the NDDC headquarters to the Port Harcourt Electric Distribution Company, PHED, bilateral feeder.

Alagoa, who was represented by the Deputy Director of Community and Rural Development, Mr Olorunlara Olumide, explained that the objective of the project was to link the Commission’s headquarters complex to a more reliable power source to reduce high diesel consumption and ensure an uninterrupted electricity supply as contained in a statement by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director, Corporate Affairs

He stated: “We are here in respect of an emergency work awarded to Income Electrix to connect the NDDC head office to PHED. This meeting also serves as the formal introduction and handover of the contractor to handle the project.”

He urged the contractor to meet the Commission’s expectations and promptly communicate any challenges that might arise during execution.

According to him, “the scope of work for the project includes the construction of a 33KV double circuit line tapping from Hypercity Roundabout; installation of a 1.5MVA 33/0.415 distribution substation; upgrading of the existing 500KVA 11/0.415KV transformer at the annex to 500KVA 33/0.415KV, as well as the upgrade of the 33KV feeder switchgear at the supply end.”

In his remarks, the NDDC Deputy Director of Administration and Human Resources, Engr. Erefa Alalibo assured that the project monitoring department would ensure the work was executed in line with the required standards and specifications.

Responding, the representative of Income Electrix, Mr Umo Adam, assured the Commission that the project would be delivered in line with the agreed terms and conditions. He affirmed the company’s commitment to quality and timely delivery.

The Director II, Corporate Affairs, Dr Tony Omah, emphasised the importance of proper needs assessment before the Commission embarks on any project, noting that such evaluations ensure that interventions are relevant and impactful. He stressed the need for project beneficiaries to take full ownership to ensure sustainability, while urging the contractor to maintain high standards of execution.

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has donated broadcast equipment to the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, to boost its capacity to communicate and enhance youth development in the country.

Speaking during the presentation of the communication equipment at the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters in Abuja, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said the intervention would galvanise the NYSC’s initiative in providing a strategic platform for national integration.

A statement by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director, Corporate Affairs noted that Ogbuku, who was represented by the Director, NDDC Liaison Office, Abuja, Mrs Mary Nwaeke, said that the NYSC plays a strategic role in bringing young people together.

According to the NDDC boss, “When you support the NYSC, you are empowering the nation because the scheme brings together youths from all parts of the country.

“Communication is very important, and we must ensure that it is done effectively. The NDDC recognises communication as a vital tool for national growth and development.

“That is why the Commission decided to make this presentation to boost the capacity of the NYSC radio station, so it can effectively engage corps members and inform the public about its activities and impact.”

He added that the NDDC was committed to identifying and addressing institutional gaps to support national development.

“NDDC steps in wherever there are gaps in society. After proper assessment, we provide the needed support to strengthen institutions and improve service delivery,” he said.

The NDDC boss explained that the intervention included a complete inverter system with a lithium battery for an uninterrupted power supply; a 2-kilowatt Italian-made, energy-efficient radio transmitter compliant with National Broadcasting Commission regulations; and the full renovation of the station’s wiring system in both recording and live studios to eliminate audio noise and enhance sound quality.

Also speaking, the Director-General of NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, commended the NDDC for the donation, describing it as timely and impactful.

Nafiu, who was represented by the Director, Media, Mr Emeka Mgbemena, said the equipment would enhance operations at the NYSC radio station and improve training for corps members in broadcasting.

He described the donation as a major boost to the Scheme’s broadcasting capacity, noting that the NYSC Radio Station, which has been in operation for over four years, serves as a critical training platform for corps members.

The Director-General stated that the station is largely operated by Corps Members who acquire practical broadcasting skills while contributing to its daily operations. He further disclosed that more than 12 Corps Members who trained at the station in the past three years have secured employment with media organisations.

He assured the NDDC that the equipment would be put to effective use to ensure uninterrupted transmission and improved service delivery.

The NYSC Director-General expressed appreciation to the NDDC for the intervention and assured that the equipment would be effectively utilised to strengthen the station’s mandate to educate, inform, and entertain.

… As Tournament Train Moves to Sagbama LGA
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‎Former champions, Ogboin United of Ogboinbiri have been eliminated from the 2026 edition of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football spectacle the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, tagged the Prosperity Cup.
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‎Onde United of Ondewari beat Ogboin United of Ogboinbiri 3-1 via penalties after a two-all draw in regulation time at the Korokorosei centre in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
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‎The victory means that Onde United have now joined Mini FC, Igoni FC, Okoroma United, Fantua FC, FUO Kings, Kolo Creek United, Orashi FC, Edi 1 FC, Movers FC of Otuasega, Krosaders FC and others to reach the round of 32.
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‎Tournament hopeful, Rich Destiny FC at the Tombia centre defeated Northern Warriors by two goals to one to advance to the next round of the tournament. Billy Engoye put Rich Destiny in front on 37 minutes. Tobeye Patrick on 65 minutes leveled the scoreline while Daniel Tarila made it 2-1 on 88 minutes to propel Rich Destiny to the next round of the tournament.
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‎Bayelsa State College of Nursing Sciences (BYSCONS) FC in the second game at the Tombia centre edged out Gbarain SC by two goals to one. Goals in each half from Enisuoh Oyinkepreye on 4 and 73 minutes as well as Wisdom’s 35 minutes ‎consolation goal gave (BYSCONS) FC the deserved victory.
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‎Eric FA at the Amassoma centre triumphed 4-3 on penalties against NDU Oilers FC after a one-all draw in regulation time to reach the next phase of the competition.
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‎Hostilites will resume on Thursday March 27th, 2026 in seven centres in Yenagoa as the Prosperity Cup train prepares for Sagbama LGA this weekend.

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Niger Delta, stressing the need to continually promote the rich traditions of ethnic nationalities across the Niger Delta region.

Speaking during the Niger Delta Arts and Culture Expo in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said the cultural event reflects Nigeria’s enduring strength in unity despite its diversity.

The event, with the theme: “Rhythm of the Niger Delta: Music, Dance and the Heartbeat of Our People,” brought together stakeholders and cultural groups from across the region, displaying traditional music, dance, and artistic expressions in a vibrant celebration of heritage and unity.

A statement by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director, Corporate Affairs noted that the NDDC Managing Director, represented by the Akwa Ibom State Representative on the NDDC Board, Apostle Abasiandikan Nkono, described the Arts and Culture Expo as a powerful platform to celebrate the region’s rich heritage through music, dance, and indigenous expressions.

He stated: “What we have witnessed today is a clear demonstration that culture remains the soul of our people. It cannot be diminished by technology. The Niger Delta has once again shown its rich, vibrant and beautiful heritage.”

Ogbuku added that the event reinforced the bonds of love, unity, and shared identity among the people of the region, while also showcasing their appreciation for the Commission’s efforts to promote cultural integration.

He noted that the NDDC continued to gain recognition for its developmental strides, including the successful hosting of the second Niger Delta Games in Benin, Edo State, and the completion of projects across the region.

Ogbuku said further: “Our story has changed. Today, the NDDC is receiving commendation at the highest level, including President Bola Tinubu. With continued support, we can assure that the best is yet to come.”

In her remarks, the Special Guest of Honour, Ambassador Amaba Ogbuku described the Expo as a powerful reminder of identity and cultural pride.

“Without culture, we are nothing. It defines who we are and reminds us of our heritage wherever we find ourselves in the world,” she said.

She urged participants to embrace unity and uphold the values that bind the people of the Niger Delta together.

Also speaking, the NDDC Director of Culture and Women Affairs at NDDC, Mrs Ahunna Imoni, said the Arts and Culture Expo highlights the region’s uniqueness and diversity.

She noted: “Culture brings us together. It tells our story, reflects our values, and connects us across generations. This event is not just about performances, but about unity, pride, and shared identity.”

…hosts Investment Summit in May

‎The Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCITMA) has unveiled plans to attract up to five billion dollars structured investments to the oil-producing region in five years.

Chairman of the NDCCITMA, Amb. Idaere Gogo Ogan, who disclosed this at a pre-summit conference ahead of the Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, said the initiative would catalyse no fewer than 500,000 direct and indirect jobs as well as spur investments and create wealth.

In a statement signed by Mr Ono K. Akpe
Consultant, Media and Sponsorship, Ambr Ogan noted that the summit with the theme: “Driving Investment, Innovation, and Industrial Growth in the Niger Delta”, slated for Port Harcourt on May 19-21, 2026, would deliberate on investment mobilisation, enterprise growth, industrial expansion, and regional coordination.
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President Bola Tinubu is expected as the special guest while the Prime Minister of Barbados, the Hon Mia Amor Mottley, will be the keynote speaker.
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‎Ogan stated that the recent Niger Delta Business Roundtable brought together policy-making leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, development institutions, and strategic stakeholders from across the nine Niger Delta states, and that the clear message from the event was for the region to transit from ambition to implementation.
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‎Also speaking, the NDCCITMA Secretary and chairman of the summit local organising committee, Dr. Solomon Edebiri, said the economic and investment summit was a strategic initiative designed to reposition the region as a competitive hub for investment, enterprise development, and sustainable industrialisation.
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‎Dr. Edebiri noted that the Niger Delta was known for its contribution to Nigeria’s economy through oil and gas, stressing however that its legacy lies on its diverse wealth and its untapped opportunities, which the summit seeks to highlight and unlock.
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‎He added that the organising committee has lined up various activities to promote the event, including a road show across the Niger Delta states, in Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory as well as a follow-up press conference.

Present at the press conference are Chief Kelechi Obilor Financial Secretary, (NDCCITM) Mrs, Boma Jack; Board Member (NDCCITMA), Hon Marcel Odunze; Board Member, amongst others.

Ono K. Akpe
Consultant
Media and Sponsorship

The traditional ruler of Oruma Community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Pere John Tacha Abara, has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, for providing relief materials to alleviate the pains of flood victims in the area.

The Monarch, who spoke during the distribution of relief materials in his domain, noted that the impact of NDDC in his community and the entire Niger Delta region was laudable, describing NDDC’s intervention as capable of reducing hunger in the community.

He stated: “We are indeed excited with the relief materials that have been sent to our community. It shows that NDDC recognises that the Oruma community is a flood-prone area.

“What the NDDC has been doing for our community and the entire region is enormous, and it shows that the Commission is working in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which emphasises the need to address food insecurity in the country.”

The royal father called on his subjects and the people of the Niger Delta region to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027 because of his outstanding performance in rural communities.
He allayed fears of possible hijacking of the relief packages, stating that the items would be equitably distributed to the people.

The NDDC Managing Director, who was represented by a Director in the Directorate of Education, Health and Social Services, Engr. Jeremiah Oritsejoloni, observed that the decision to intervene in the flood-ravaged communities was driven by the Commission’s concern for the people.

He added that the commission’s intervention has cut across several aspects of development in the region and enjoined the people to remain law-abiding, noting that development could only take place in a rancour-free environment.

The Consultant for the programme, Mrs Egondu Esinwoke-Ogbalor, explained that the high population density and the extent of damage suffered by the people were among the factors considered before the intervention to ameliorate the situation and avert insecurity and youth restiveness.

She added that the Community Initiative for Enhanced Peace and Development was also sensitising the people on possible flooding within the year.

She reiterated that the NDDC, in partnership with her Foundation, was determined to extend the same gesture to other communities affected by natural disasters.

March 21, 2026.