The announcement of a partnership between the Niger Delta Development Commission’s Managing Director, Samuel Ogbuku, and the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce to provide entrepreneurial training for young people in the region signifies a significant step towards youth empowerment and economic growth in the Niger Delta.
Alongside this training initiative, Ogbuku has also committed to extending support to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the region, with the aim of ensuring the sustainability of youth development programmes and fostering economic growth.
Furthermore, Ogbuku has expressed the intention of collaborating with the Bank of Industry to provide funding for projects and support businesses, underscoring the commitment to bolstering youth entrepreneurship in the region.
During a recent address, Ogbuku emphasized the importance of engaging with various stakeholders in the region to gather insights and foster collaboration for the overall development of the Niger Delta, stating, “We will soon hold a Niger Delta Stakeholders Summit and the youths must be a part of it.”
Additionally, Ogbuku affirmed the NDDC’s shift in focus from being a source of financial gain for politicians to concentrating on the development of the region through public-private partnerships and strategic collaborations. His determination to lead the NDDC into partnerships with local and international development organizations, donor agencies, as well as management and financial institutions, reflects a commitment to transformation.
Ogbuku’s appointment as the managing director/CEO of the NDDC in August 2023 by President Bola Tinubu, based on his previous role as senior special assistant on Niger Delta affairs to the former Deputy President of the Senate, Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege, speaks to his capabilities and determination to drive positive change in the Niger Delta.
With these promising initiatives and Ogbuku’s dedication to fostering development and empowerment in the Niger Delta, there is hope for significant progress in the coming years. Empowering the youth through entrepreneurial training and creating a conducive environment for business growth is crucial for ensuring a brighter future for the Niger Delta.