NDDC Reaffirms Commitment To Women Empowerment On International Women’s Day

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment in the Niger Delta region as it observed International Women’s Day 2025 in all nine states.

Sir Kelechi Nwelue, NDDC State Director, spoke at the Women’s Day programme in Owerri, Imo State, praising the indispensable role women play in shaping families, communities, and the nation as a whole.

According to Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director of Corporate Affairs, this year’s celebration, themed “Accelerate Action,” reflects the NDDC’s ongoing commitment to inclusive development and women’s advancement in society.

“Women are central to everything we do at the NDDC, so we celebrate you every year,” said Sir Nwelue. “Your contributions to peacebuilding, development, and nationhood are enormous, and we are still committed to supporting and empowering you.

He went on to say that since its inception 25 years ago, the NDDC has served as a catalyst for change in the Niger Delta.

“Today, as we celebrate women, we recognise that without a woman, there is no home, and without a home, there is no nation,” he said.

Mrs. Ahuna Imoni, NDDC Director of Culture and Women Affairs, praised Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the Commission’s Managing Director/CEO, for his inclusive leadership style.

“Dr. Ogbuku is a champion of women. Under his leadership, the NDDC is officially celebrating International Women’s Day in all nine states for the first time in history.

The female employees are not left out. “No empowerment initiative is carried out without due consideration for women,” she confirmed.

Mrs. Imoni also mentioned the increasing number of women in leadership roles at the NDDC. “Women now lead major directorates, demonstrating that women are not just support systems, but leaders, peacemakers, and change agents.

We are here to inspire every woman to use her voice, take up space, and lead with integrity and purpose.”

Mrs. Chioma Egu, Imo State Commissioner for Health, delivered a wellness and community health awareness talk during the event, which focused on empowerment.

She emphasised the importance of preventive healthcare, especially in rural areas, and encouraged women to prioritise their health.

Mrs. Chioma Greywood Ogu, a key facilitator, gave a presentation titled “Gender Inequality and Discrimination: How Women Can Reclaim Their Place through Emotional Intelligence.”

She emphasised the importance of self-awareness and emotional strength in overcoming societal barriers.

“Emotional intelligence is a powerful tool that helps women lead, advocate, and thrive in male-dominated environments,” she stated.

Participants from across the region expressed appreciation for the NDDC’s initiative.

Mrs. Charity Chukwu, one of the participants, stated, “This event has boosted our confidence. We appreciate the NDDC’s recognition of women’s worth and its provision of a platform to elevate our voices. We will return to our communities energised to do more.”

The NDDC’s celebration of International Women’s Day demonstrates the organisation’s continued commitment to empowering women and promoting inclusive development throughout the Niger Delta region.