NDDC Extends ‘Help the Girl Child’ Initiative To Imo, Bayelsa States

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has expanded its “Help the Girl Child” program to include Oguta, Imo State, and Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, demonstrating its commitment to female education in the region.

The initiative’s goal is to empower young girls through education, promote self-esteem, and encourage them to pursue their dreams.

Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, NDDC Managing Director, spoke at the launch in Oguta’s Civic Centre. He was represented by Dr. George Uzowanne, Director of Education, Health, and Social Services (EHSS), and emphasised the commission’s commitment to human capital development.

The NDDC promised to provide educational materials like U-lesson tablets, textbooks, exercise books, and desks. Dr. Ogbuku also encouraged students to pursue the NDDC’s postgraduate foreign scholarship program.

Dr. Kelechi Nwalue, the NDDC Director in Imo State, urged students to concentrate on their studies and avoid social vices. Mrs Chioma Nwakwue, Deputy Director of EHSS, urged the girls to be confident and respectful, emphasising education as the key to their future.

Mrs. Nwakwue of Bayelsa State emphasised the importance of investing in human capital alongside infrastructure development.

She explained that the program, titled “Girl’s Vision for the Future,” aims to help girls refine their dreams and focus on a brighter future. Engr. Godknows Alamieseigha, Director of the NDDC Bayelsa State Office, acknowledged the challenges that girls face in the region and highlighted the program’s role in empowering them.

Resource person Mrs. Maria Olodi emphasised the importance of self-empowerment in developing confidence and control over one’s life.

The program also covered personal hygiene and strategies for dealing with daily challenges.

Aside from educational initiatives, the NDDC distributed relief supplies, including food, to the Oguta community in Imo State.

Dr. Uzowanne, who presented the aid at Eze Nnani Nzeribe’s palace, urged the community to maintain peace and unity in order to continue development.

The Oguta community expressed appreciation for the NDDC’s assistance.