The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has commenced the disbursement of monthly stipends of N50,000 to 10,000 indigenous youths from the Niger Delta as part of its Youth Internship Scheme.On Thursday, Mrs. Seledi-Thompson-Wakama, the Director of Corporate Affairs at the NDDC, shared this information with reporters in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State. She noted that the selected beneficiaries will engage in practical, hands-on training at various organizations for a duration of 12 months, aimed at developing essential skills.
According to reports from NAN, the scheme was inaugurated on July 31, 2024, during which Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the Federal Government’s approval for the stipend.
Thompson-Wakama confirmed that the selection process has been successfully completed and that trainees are being placed in organizations for practical experience. “As a result of these completed phases, we have also initiated the payment of the monthly stipends,” she added.She indicated that the 10,000 selected beneficiaries were chosen transparently from a pool of over 3.2 million youths who registered for the empowerment initiative.
This remarkable response showcases the tremendous potential and aspirations of our youth to enhance their capabilities.”In her statement, she emphasized that the NDDC is committed to ensuring that this transformative opportunity benefits the most deserving candidates, ultimately creating a lasting impact and fostering a brighter future.
Thompson-Wakama further elaborated that the internship scheme has allowed the commission to gather critical data regarding the qualifications, skills, interests, needs, and employment status of the region’s youth.
This information will inform the NDDC in designing programs tailored to address the unique challenges faced by young people.Additionally, she revealed that the NDDC has partnered with KPMG, a global audit and consultancy firm, to strengthen its corporate governance framework. “KPMG has produced a Governance Advisory Report that will serve as a vital tool in the commission’s shift from a transaction-based to a transformation-focused policy,” she said.
The director expressed her appreciation for the patience and cooperation of the youths throughout the selection process for the scheme.
