Bayelsa flood victims commend NDDC for completing rescue of their communities with relief materials

… As Commission flags off IT in PH

Two communities in Bayelsa State have poured commendations on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for not only rebuilding their schools and clinics after flood disaster but for coming back with more relief materials.

The leaders of the communities made the commendations after receiving the materials on behalf of the two communities.

Speaking for Otuasega community, Innocent Abbey, vice chairman of the Community Development Committee (CDC), acknowledged the Commission’s contributions to the development of the community.

He highlighted completed projects, including the construction of a modern school, hospital, and lodge for youth corps members, as well as the ongoing provision of food items and relief materials.

“We are grateful to the NDDC for remembering our people at this difficult time. These items will go a long way in easing the burden on our people,” he said.

On his own, Akaribo Lamanya, secretary of the Ngbiama-Oruma Community, lauded the present board of NDDC, pledging that the relief materials would be distributed equitably among the people.

The NDDC donated relief materials to Otuasega and Oruma communities in Bayelsa State saying it is in fulfilment of its mandate to respond to the needs of the people of the Niger Delta region,

Speaking during the distribution exercise, Samuel Ogbuku, NDDC Managing Director, noted that the distribution of palliatives demonstrated the Commission’s resolve to align its social interventions with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Ogbuku, who was represented by Chioma Nwakwe, deputy director, Education, Health, and Social Services, stated: “Just recently, the NDDC flagged off its 2025 Free Medical Mission in the Niger Delta. The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was here to commission the remodelled Otuasega Cottage Hospital and School. Items such as chairs, desks, and U-Lesson tabs were donated to Otuasega school. With the support of the First Lady, we are here once again to donate relief materials to Otuasega people.

“We are committed to alleviating the plight of the people by supporting vulnerable communities. This distribution is not limited to Otuasega and Oruma communities. This donation is done in partnership with an indigenous non-governmental organisation, Ednest Egerue Foundation.”

According to Seledi Thompson-Wakama

Director, Corporate Affairs of NDDC, Susan Ibiama, founder of the Ednest Egerue Foundation, commended the NDDC for the roles it was playing in bringing succour and relief to the people of the Niger Delta region. “I thank the NDDC for the opportunity to partner with them to assist troubled communities. This flood resulted in significant economic losses for these communities. This intervention is laudable,” she said.

In a related development, the NDDC has launched a comprehensive technical skills acquisition programme to equip participants with practical in-demand skills.

Speaking at the official flag-off of the programme in Port Harcourt, Ogbuku stated that it aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the efforts to address youth unemployment and restiveness in the Niger Delta.

Ogbuku, who was represented by Victor Antai, the NDDC Executive Director of Projects, described the programme as ‘development in action.’

He stated, “Every enduring legacy begins with a foundation. What we are doing today is laying down the skills, vision, and effort to build the Niger Delta of our dreams. These trainings are not just routine empowerment but strategic investments in human capital. When we teach scaffolding, we are not just building structures; we are raising futures. When we teach pipe coating and fitting, we are sealing the lips of unemployment and poverty.”

Ogbuku emphasised that skills, such as pipe fitting, sandblasting, scaffolding, and forklifting, were essential and marketable in sectors like construction, oil and gas, and industrial services, both locally and internationally. He urged participants to be disciplined and fully committed, noting that the skills they acquire are “permanent assets” that will empower them for life.

In her remarks, Lyna Okara, the Director, Commercial and Industrial Development, reaffirmed the NDDC’s commitment to building a capable and employable youth population. “This training will equip you with knowledge, experience, and employable or self-employment skills, thereby contributing to your personal growth and a sustainable regional economy,” she said.

Also speaking, Blessing Olodiama, the Chief Operating Officer of Thompson Best Nigeria Limited, the lead consultant for the programme, described the training as timely and relevant in today’s skill-driven world.

She encouraged participants to make the most of the opportunity. “NDDC has invested so much in each of you. Pay attention to the training rules, stay focused, and avoid distractions. What you gain today will determine your tomorrow,” she advised.