NDDC Pledges Support for Citizen Empowerment Initiative

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has pledged its support for Project New Nigeria, a civic awareness campaign organised by the Foundation for Citizens Empowerment and Sensitisation on Civic Responsibility Initiative.

In a statement by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director of Corporate Affairs, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, emphasised at the launch of the initiative in the Main Auditorium of the University of Port Harcourt that the project aligns with the goals of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on youth empowerment, civic responsibility, inclusive governance, and rebuilding public trust in the nation’s democratic institutions.

Ogbuku, represented by the Deputy Director of Education, Health, and Social Services at the NDDC, Mrs. Chioma Nwakwue, stated, “It also resonates with the current vision of the NDDC management, which is deliberately shifting the Commission’s operations from a transactional approach to a transformational development mandate—one that prioritises people, communities, and sustainable impact above all else.”

While commending the organisers of the project, Ogbuku noted that the launch of the initiative was both timely and strategic. “Strengthening democratic participation, especially among our young people, is a critical step toward building the Nigeria that we want.”

He reiterated the NDDC’s commitment to supporting initiatives that foster civic responsibility, nurture leadership, and empower the next generation.

In his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Senator Mao Ohanbunwa, encouraged the youth to recognise the power they wield as participants in the nation’s democratic processes and urged Nigerian youths to engage actively with democratic institutions.

Also speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Professor Owunari Georgewill, expressed optimism that Nigerian youths are increasingly becoming involved in positive endeavours, such as advocating for inclusive governance and active participation in democratic processes.

Earlier, the Convener of Project New Nigeria, Mr. Samuel Nzidee, commended the NDDC management for its efforts toward the sustainable transformation of the Niger Delta region, emphasising that all stakeholders must collaborate and participate in this effort.