NDDC invites youths to apply for the N6bn training scheme designed to enhance skills and employment opportunities. Find out more here.
The Niger Delta Development Commission’s leadership has denied allegations that its recent offer of 10,000 jobs for youths in the region was an attempt to discourage them from participating in nationwide protests against economic difficulties and famine.
On Monday, during the launch of the NDDC Youth Internship Scheme in Port Harcourt, Dr Samuel Ogbuku – the Managing Director of NDDC – refuted any allegations made against him.
According to Ogbuku, the commission’s scheme and other initiatives were not a reactionary measure sparked by the August 1st protests.
On Tuesday, July 30th, 2024 at a conference aimed at sensitizing ethnic nationalities and youths in the Niger Delta region, Ogbuku made an appearance.
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The Federal Government has approved a program to provide skills empowerment for 10,000 youths in Port Harcourt. The authorities have announced that phase one beneficiaries will receive monthly payments of N50,000.
Ogbuku stated on Monday that the scheme was unrelated to the hunger strike.
He expressed that when they proposed to host the program, some individuals attempted to discourage them by suggesting that they should wait until after the ten-day protest period.
The possibility of the protesters causing a disruption in the program was brought to our attention. In response, we proposed that as Niger Delta natives, this event could serve as an opportunity for us to determine if our people are open-minded enough to support positive initiatives.
Today, by observing our surroundings, one can witness the serene and composed demeanor of our young generation. It is evident that there are no disturbances to be found in any corner as we value peace above all else within our community. Our people embrace positivity and acknowledge its worthiness with great appreciation.
We are here today to launch the portal of the Youth Internship Scheme.
“I want to clarify that the programmes we are launching for the youth, including the Youth Internship Scheme, were not developed as a reaction or afterthought in response to planned protests. We have been planning and earmarking these initiatives.”
“Every one of these programs was meticulously planned and incorporated into the NDDC budget for 2024.”
According to Ogbuku, the commission and other concerned parties urged young people from the region not to participate in the 10-day protest due to past experiences with protests.
The area had already endured its fair share of demonstrations, and now valued maintaining peace over further unrest. Therefore, they encouraged expressing their contentment for a peaceful environment instead.
