- The NDDC Director of Social Services, Engr. Jeremiah Oritsejolone (3rd right), the Consultant Hon. Samuel Kaley Nzidee (2nd right), pose with students during the Project New Nigeria and Voters Sensitization Programme at Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State
By Our Reporter
YENEGOA, Bayelsa – The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has challenged students in higher institutions across the Niger Delta to take their civic responsibilities seriously by obtaining their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs).
He described the PVC as the ultimate tool for youths to influence national decisions and elect leaders whose values align with the aspirations of the younger generation.
Speaking at the launch of Project New Nigeria and a voter registration sensitisation drive in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Ogbuku noted that the voting process is a testament to the collective belief in a Nigeria that has the potential to flourish.
The NDDC boss, who was represented by the Director of Social Services, Engr. Jeremiah Oritsejolone, emphasized that the future of the country rests on the active participation of its youth.
”The Nigerian youths are the heartbeat of the new Nigeria that we all seek. Your energy, brilliance, and voice will determine the direction our nation takes. For your voice to be heard, you must collect your PVC, as the process gives you the opportunity to influence decisions, shape governance, and demand accountability,” Ogbuku declared.
Commitment to Capacity Building
Highlighting the Commission’s recent efforts, Ogbuku noted that since he assumed office, the NDDC has remained steadfast in implementing transformation and capacity-building programmes across the region.
He urged students to prioritize registration and collection of their PVCs ahead of the forthcoming general elections, reiterating the Commission’s support for initiatives that empower future generations.
The event, organised by the Foundation for Citizens Empowerment, aims to bridge the gap in civic education within the academic community.
Earlier in the programme, the Convener of Project New Nigeria, Mr. Samuel Okani, explained that the initiative was designed to complement government efforts in building a resilient democracy.
”We are carrying out this exercise in all the universities in the region to give orientation and broaden students’ horizons on the need for them to collect their PVCs,” Okani stated. “We believe that active participation in the voting exercise is another way for the youths to take control of the economy.”
Okani expressed optimism that the programme, which has received significant interest from the student body, would be sustained in the coming years to ensure a more politically conscious youth population in the Niger Delta.
