The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, announced that 10,000 participants in the Commission’s Youth Internship scheme will receive a monthly stipend of N50,000 beginning in December 2024.
Ogbuku made the announcement while being honored as an Ambassador Extraordinaire by a delegation from the University of Ibadan, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Kayode Adebowale, at the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt.
Launched on August 5, 2024, the Youth Internship Scheme attracted over three million applications from young people eager to begin training. Ogbuku stated that the selected interns would be placed with organizations for one year to acquire various skills. Additionally, the NDDC has introduced the Holistic Opportunity Projects of Engagement (HOPE) to further enhance opportunities for Niger Delta youths.
Ogbuku urged the University of Ibadan to enhance its research initiatives, emphasizing the NDDC’s commitment to sponsoring research that addresses societal challenges, including the development of life-saving vaccines.
He expressed pride in the recognition from the University of Ibadan, noting that it reflects the growing appreciation of the NDDC’s achievements. The Commission plans to inaugurate more completed projects in the first week of December.
The NDDC has also collaborated with KPMG to improve its corporate governance and internal processes, which is expected to foster a strong institutional culture grounded in ethics and good governance.
Prof. Adebowale praised Ogbuku for his transformative leadership at the NDDC, highlighting the university’s esteemed status in Nigeria and its recognition in global rankings.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof. Peter Olapegba emphasized Ogbuku’s contributions to societal improvement, noting the importance of celebrating impactful Nigerians to foster future collaborations. NDDC Executive Director Chief Boma Iyaye also commended the university delegation for their recognition of the Commission.
Peoplesmind
