The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has distributed relief materials to residents of Ogu-Bolo in Rivers State, in response to the recent flood disaster that displaced families, destroyed farmlands and worsened economic hardship in the area.
Presenting the items on behalf of the Managing Director, the Director II, Education, Health and Social Services, Engr. Jeremiah Onolejoloni, said the intervention underscores the commission’s commitment to alleviating the plight of vulnerable communities across the Niger Delta.
According to a statement by the Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, the gesture followed the devastating impact of flooding on livelihoods in the community.
The Managing Director noted that the commission, in collaboration with the Derek and Davia Foundation, provided financial support to facilitate the distribution of essential food items and household materials to affected residents.
He described the initiative as part of efforts to address pressing needs, adding that it also reflects government’s solidarity with citizens facing economic challenges.
“This intervention goes beyond palliatives. It is a demonstration of government’s presence, compassion and commitment to supporting families in distress, in line with the renewed hope agenda of the President,” he said.
He urged community leaders to ensure fair distribution of the items and encouraged residents to sustain peace and support development programmes.
The Paramount Ruler of Ogu-Bolo, Chief Joachim Amachiri, commended the commission for the timely intervention, noting that it would provide much-needed relief to victims of the flood.
He reaffirmed the community’s support for NDDC initiatives aimed at improving living conditions in the region.
Also speaking, a consultant on the programme, represented by Dr George Smile, praised the commission’s responsiveness to disaster-affected communities, disclosing that plans were underway, in partnership with development stakeholders, to extend similar support to neighbouring areas.
In another development, the NDDC, has donated broadcast equipment to the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, to boost its capacity to communicate and enhance youth development in the country.
Speaking during the presentation of the communication equipment at the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters in Abuja, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said the intervention would galvanise the NYSC’s initiative in providing a strategic platform for national integration.
Ogbuku, who was represented by the Director, NDDC Liaison Office, Abuja, Mrs Mary Nwaeke, said that the NYSC plays a strategic role in bringing young people together.
According to the NDDC boss, “When you support the NYSC, you are empowering the nation because the scheme brings together youths from all parts of the country.
“Communication is very important, and we must ensure that it is done effectively. The NDDC recognises communication as a vital tool for national growth and development.
“That is why the Commission decided to make this presentation to boost the capacity of the NYSC radio station, so it can effectively engage corps members and inform the public about its activities and impact.”
He added that the NDDC was committed to identifying and addressing institutional gaps to support national development.
“NDDC steps in wherever there are gaps in society. After proper assessment, we provide the needed support to strengthen institutions and improve service delivery,” he said.
The NDDC boss explained that the intervention included a complete inverter system with a lithium battery for an uninterrupted power supply; a 2-kilowatt Italian-made, energy-efficient radio transmitter compliant with National Broadcasting Commission regulations; and the full renovation of the station’s wiring system in both recording and live studios to eliminate audio noise and enhance sound quality.
Also speaking, the Director-General of NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, commended the NDDC for the donation, describing it as timely and impactful.
Nafiu, who was represented by the Director, Media, Mr Emeka Mgbemena, said the equipment would enhance operations at the NYSC radio station and improve training for corps members in broadcasting.
He described the donation as a major boost to the Scheme’s broadcasting capacity, noting that the NYSC Radio Station, which has been in operation for over four years, serves as a critical training platform for corps members.
The Director-General stated that the station is largely operated by Corps Members who acquire practical broadcasting skills while contributing to its daily operations. He further disclosed that more than 12 Corps Members who trained at the station in the past three years have secured employment with media organisations.
He assured the NDDC that the equipment would be put to effective use to ensure uninterrupted transmission and improved service delivery.
The NYSC Director-General expressed appreciation to the NDDC for the intervention and assured that the equipment would be effectively utilised to strengthen the station’s mandate to educate, inform, and entertain.
