NDDC Launches Internship Scheme for 10,000 Niger Delta Youths

Mr. Chiedu Ebie, Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission’s Governing Board, has formally launched the Commission’s Youth Internship Scheme for 10,000 young people in the Niger Delta region.
Speaking at the launch ceremony in Port Harcourt, Ebie emphasised that the NDDC was committed to advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and implementing effective youth programs.

According to Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director of Corporate Affairs, Ebie stated that the Youth Internship Scheme will provide 10,000 people in the Niger Delta region with the necessary training and experience for gainful employment as well as self-employment through entrepreneurship.

Ebie explained that the scheme would accept young people with varying levels of education and experience, but that they should not be older than 45 years.

Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of the NDDC, also stated that entrepreneurial and skill development were critical components for unlocking the potential of Niger Delta youths.

He stated that the goal was to teach youths meaningful and self-sustaining skills that would improve their lives, support their families and communities, and thus ensure peace in the Niger Delta region.
Ogbuku stated that the Internship Scheme and other NDDC youth programs were carefully planned and included in the Commission’s 2024 budget, emphasising that they were not in response to protests in other parts of the country.

He emphasised that “the scheme will also develop metrics for its impact on the Niger Delta region’s economy.” Admission to the scheme will be highly competitive, based on merit.

“Applicants must include a personal statement in their application that reflects their commitment to meeting the programme’s objectives and contributing to the region’s socioeconomic development.”

Ogbuku stated that the scheme would empower the benefiting youths in technology, music and arts, agriculture and marine, among other areas, and that each intern would be paid N50,000 per month for the 12-month internship period.

He urged program participants to set a good example for future beneficiaries. Registration is only available online at https://www.nyis.nddc.gov.ng.

According to the NDDC boss, all nine NDDC states will have 500 slots before the oil production quota is applied to the remaining slots.
Ogbuku stated, “On July 30, we gathered in Port Harcourt to sensitise the youths of the region on the reasons why they should avoid the national protest planned then.

‘The stakeholders unanimously agreed not to participate in the protest, demonstrating that, despite our diverse nature and challenges, we are united in our belief that we need development rather than protest.

“This should reassure investors that the Niger Delta is peaceful and eager to develop. We acknowledge that things are difficult now in Nigeria and on a global scale.”

The NDDC Executive Director, Projects, Sir Victor Antai, explained the Internship Scheme, saying that placing youths on internships will allow them to improve their technical skills and gain practical experience, allowing them to become self-sufficient.

He went on to say that each applicant will be encouraged to identify a specific internship location, while the scheme will connect them with prospective businesses that will help them improve their skills.

He stated, “We have achieved a significant milestone in our ongoing quest for progress and prosperity in the Niger Delta region.

“The vigour and vitality of a nation’s youth are its heartbeat, but in the Niger Delta, the beat has faltered due to poverty caused by difficult terrain and limited opportunities.

“The NDDC Youth Internship Scheme is more than just a financial intervention; it is a symbol of our commitment to nurturing and empowering future generations.

Antai urged all beneficiaries to “take this opportunity with both hands and use it to fuel their passion to learn, groom, and give back to our communities.”

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our partners, stakeholders, and well-wishers; your support and collaboration are critical to the success of this scheme. Together, we can turn the tide on unemployment and steer the Niger Delta towards a brighter future.”