The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has disbursed N10 billion to the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines, and Agriculture (NDCCITMA) to kick-start an entrepreneur development program.
This funding is part of a larger N30 billion commitment by the NDDC to support business growth in the region. The Commission noted that this initiative is aimed at strengthening commerce and trade across the Niger Delta.
Speaking at the inauguration of the NDCCITMA Board of Directors in Port Harcourt, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting small businesses.
“During the flag-off ceremony of the sensitisation programme, I did mention that the commission will be investing N30bn in the Enterprise Development scheme to be managed by NDCCITMA to support the entrepreneurs in our region from the NANO, Micro and Small-scale level,” Ogbuku stated.
He further confirmed that the first installment of N10 billion had been deposited in the designated NDCCITMA bank account for the immediate commencement of the program.
The NDDC head also stressed the importance of collaboration between the Commission and the Chamber to drive economic growth in the region.
“We look forward to their partnering with NDCCITMA for the growth of the economies of the states and the region at large. I would also like to appreciate all the state reps on the NDDC board for their full support. It is good that this is happening in your own time on the board of NDDC,” he said.
As part of the initiative’s rollout, 5,000 businesses have been approved to benefit from the scheme. The Commission noted that both parties would work out the operational details to ensure smooth implementation.
Additionally, Ogbuku directed all contractors and vendors working with the NDDC to register with NDCCITMA before July 31, 2025. He stated that registration with the Chamber would provide an added advantage for those seeking continued business engagements with the Commission.
“The commission would also like to advise all current and intending vendors in NDDC to register with NDCCITMA, as doing so will be an added advantage for consideration of possible and continued patronage by the Commission. From today to July 31st, every NDDC contractor must be duly registered with the NDCCITMA,” Ogbuku noted.
In his remarks, the Board Chairman of NDCCITMA, Idaere Ogan, expressed the Chamber’s commitment to working alongside the NDDC to advance economic development in the Niger Delta.
“We align fully with the NDDC’s vision to transform the Niger Delta into a region that is economically prosperous, socially stable, ecologically regenerative and politically principled,” Ogan said.
He further explained that the Chamber would serve as a driving force for economic growth, supporting businesses at all levels, from nano and micro enterprises to large industries.
“This platform will facilitate job creation, skills development, innovation, export growth, and productive partnerships,” he added.
