NDDC Launches Youth Internship Program with N50,000 Monthly Stipend Starting December

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has announced that starting December 2024, 10,000 youths selected for its Youth Internship Scheme will receive a monthly stipend of N50,000. This initiative, championed by Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the Managing Director of the NDDC, is part of a broader commitment to foster skill acquisition and provide job-readiness opportunities for the youths of the Niger Delta.

Supporting the Future of Youth Through Internships

Unveiled in August 2024 in Port Harcourt, the Youth Internship Scheme is already garnering substantial interest, with over three million youths applying. This massive response reflects a clear demand for structured, skill-focused programs that can directly link participants with future job opportunities. Under this scheme, selected participants will spend a year interning at various organizations, giving them a platform to learn practical skills in line with their career aspirations.

Dr. Ogbuku stated that the stipend, set at N50,000 per month, will support the interns financially, allowing them to focus on developing the expertise needed for their chosen fields. The internship will thus serve as both a stepping stone into professional environments and a way for young Nigerians to gain financial independence while building skills.

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HOPE Initiative: Empowering Youths Holistically

In addition to the Youth Internship Scheme, the NDDC has introduced the Holistic Opportunity Projects of Engagement (HOPE) program. HOPE is designed to address specific skill development needs and interests of the Niger Delta youths. Through the HOPE program, the Commission seeks to build sustainable pathways for young people to develop specialized competencies that will enable them to contribute effectively to both local and national economies.

Commitment to Education and Research

As part of the ongoing efforts to empower the Niger Delta region, Dr. Ogbuku also emphasized the NDDC's commitment to supporting research and innovation. Addressing a delegation from the University of Ibadan, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Kayode Adebowale, he stated that the NDDC is prepared to collaborate with universities on life-saving research initiatives, particularly in areas that address pressing social and health issues.

Dr. Ogbuku’s vision includes sponsorships and partnerships with universities to drive solutions in medicine, engineering, and social sciences. By fostering an environment for impactful research, the NDDC aims to tackle core issues facing Nigerian society and contribute to global scientific knowledge.

Celebrating Dr. Ogbuku’s Contributions

During their visit, the University of Ibadan honored Dr. Ogbuku with the title of Ambassador Extraordinaire. This honor highlights his efforts in leading the NDDC’s transformative projects and implementing programs that support community development in the Niger Delta. Prof. Adebowale commended Dr. Ogbuku for his leadership, stating that the NDDC’s impact is increasingly recognized across Nigeria.

Further underscoring his achievements, Dr. Ogbuku announced that the NDDC will be inaugurating more completed projects by early December, signaling continued commitment to the development of the Niger Delta.

Strengthening Corporate Governance and Ethical Standards

To solidify its operational foundation, the NDDC engaged KPMG, a renowned consultancy, to refine its corporate governance systems. KPMG recently concluded its review, developing a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) that will enhance the NDDC’s institutional efficiency and ethical framework. Dr. Ogbuku expressed his optimism that the SOP will establish a strong culture rooted in sound corporate governance, ensuring the Commission's long-term effectiveness.

Building Lasting Partnerships

This collaboration between the University of Ibadan and the NDDC marks the beginning of a long-term relationship, focused on empowering Nigeria’s next generation. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Peter Olapegba, noted that recognizing Dr. Ogbuku’s contributions is part of the university’s mission to celebrate influential Nigerians who are actively reshaping society.

The NDDC's Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Chief Boma Iyaye, shared his appreciation for the university’s delegation, affirming that this relationship between the NDDC and the University of Ibadan will be enduring and mutually beneficial.

Looking Ahead

Through these innovative programs and partnerships, the NDDC under Dr. Ogbuku’s leadership is paving the way for a brighter future for the youths of the Niger Delta. As they begin receiving their stipends and embarking on their internships in December, the selected interns will not only be gaining valuable skills but also contributing to a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria.