The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has trained 500 youths in financial management and business skills, alongside the distribution of 150 minibuses and 200 tricycles to beneficiaries in Cross River State, in a move aimed at stimulating economic growth and reducing unemployment.
Speaking at the Skills Acquisition and Capacity Enhancement Programme in Calabar, the Managing Director of the Commission, Samuel Ogbuku, described the initiative as part of efforts to align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Represented by the Director of Commercial and Industrial Development, Lyna Okara, Ogbuku said the programme was designed not merely to distribute assets but to create sustainable opportunities and restore economic independence among beneficiaries.
“This empowerment programme is not just about giving out vehicles and grants; it is about creating opportunities, restoring hope, and enabling people to build better futures,” he said.
Also speaking, the Executive Director, Projects, Victor Antai, noted that the intervention fulfilled promises made to the people, urging beneficiaries to leverage the support to improve their livelihoods and extend help to others.
Antai, represented by the Commission’s Cross River State Director, Daniel Ajunwa, called for continued support for the Federal Government’s economic policies, which he said made the programme possible.
At the distribution ceremony held at the U.J. Esuene Sports Stadium, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong reaffirmed his commitment to poverty reduction through job creation and provision of basic infrastructure.
He advised beneficiaries to utilise the skills acquired and maintain the vehicles properly to ensure the sustainability of the initiative.
A stakeholder, Edet Bassey, described the programme as timely and impactful, while urging the Commission to expand such interventions.
In a related development, the NDDC also supported the 500 trained youths with take-off grants to enhance their business prospects.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Solomon Olatunji expressed appreciation to the Commission, pledging that the opportunity would be judiciously utilised.
Other beneficiaries, including Essien Ufiok and Arit Akpo, also commended the initiative, promising to deploy the assets productively to improve their livelihoods and support their families.
