The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) announce the second phase of its Holistic Opportunities Programmes for Engagement (HOPE) project

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) announced that the second phase of its Holistic Opportunities Programmes for Engagement (HOPE) project will focus on empowering youths in the oil-producing region.

NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, made the announcement during the launch of the second phase in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Monday.

Ogbuku explained that the project was developed to address the urgent challenges faced by young people, particularly with regard to employment and the lack of meaningful opportunities.

He said, "The second phase is the implementation stage of eight well-crafted programmes aimed at creating jobs and empowering our youths across sectors such as agriculture and technology.

"To achieve success with Project HOPE, collaboration is key. I invite government bodies, private sector participants, international partners, community leaders, and non-governmental organizations to join us in this important mission."

Ogbuku urged Niger Delta youths to embrace the opportunities with enthusiasm and commitment, emphasizing that "you are the architects of your future and the drivers of regional change."

He also highlighted that past empowerment programs were undermined by political interests, with participants often lacking genuine passion for the training, leading many to sell off the starter packs provided. He added, "With our new approach, we will select participants from our database based on their interests and passion, which we believe will lead to success. We will also monitor their progress to ensure long-term impact."

Victor Antai, the NDDC's Executive Director, Project, described Project HOPE as a symbol of optimism and a driver of transformation.