Port Harcourt, Rivers State – In a significant move to empower youths and promote sustainable development across the Niger Delta region, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, officially launched its Technical Skills Training Program at De Lasmall Hotel, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The Executive Director of Projects, Sir Victor Antai, who represented the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, declared the program open on behalf of the Commission’s leadership.
In his speech delivered at the opening ceremony, Sir Victor conveyed the warm regards and full support of the NDDC MD/CEO, Dr. Ogbuku, who, though unavoidably absent, remains deeply committed to youth development and capacity building in the Niger Delta.
“This program is not just a two month training. It is a lifeline. A builder doesn’t start with the roof; he begins with the scaffolding. Likewise, this initiative is part of the foundation we are laying for a more prosperous, self-reliant Niger Delta,” he said.
The Technical Skills Training Program, which spans two months, will equip participants with industry relevant skills in Scaffolding, Pipe Coating, Pipe Fitting and Forklift Operation — skills that are in high demand across key sectors including construction, oil and gas, and manufacturing.
“This is not just another empowerment scheme. We are not handing out fish. We are teaching how to cast the net, navigate the river, and own the boat,” Sir Victor declared. “Each certificate earned during this training is a stepping stone in the architecture of the Niger Delta’s rise.”
He emphasized that the program forms part of the Commission’s 25th anniversary celebrations and is aligned with the NDDC’s renewed focus on people centric development under Dr. Ogbuku’s leadership.
The remarks highlighted the Commission’s commitment not only to infrastructural development but also to human capital advancement, stating, “We are building roads, yes, but we are also building careers.”
Participants were urged to approach the training with discipline, urgency and passion, as the skills acquired would serve as permanent assets, helping to lift families out of economic stagnation and contribute meaningfully to regional and national development.
The event was well attended by representatives of the Commission, facilitators, trainers and selected trainees from various states of the Niger Delta.
Commendations were extended to the Director of Commercial and Industrial Development and the organizing team for executing the program, as well as to the industry partners for their technical support and professionalism.
In conclusion, the Executive Director, Projects, formally declared the training program open on behalf of the MD/CEO, charging the trainees to seize the opportunity as a transformative turning point in their lives.
“This is your Commission, working for your progress. And to the nation — watch the Niger Delta rise, not just in terrain, but in talent,” he concluded.