- The NDDC Director Administration and Human Resource, Sir Kelechi Nwelue (2nd right), in a handshake with the Chairperson of FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, Mrs Tamuno Life-George (2nd left), during summit for NDDC female directors in Port Harcourt. With them are, the NDDC Director Youth and Women Affairs, Mrs Ahunna Imoni (right) and the Consultant, Mrs Catherine Kadiri (left)
By Emmanuel Thomas l Thursday, April 23.26
PORT HARCOURT – The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing women’s development and leadership as a cornerstone of its mandate to foster sustainable growth across the Niger Delta region.
The Managing Director of the Commission, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, gave this assurance during a summit for female directors held in Port Harcourt on Thursday. Commending the contributions of women to the development of the oil-rich region, Ogbuku noted that no institution can achieve its full potential without the active participation of women.
Represented by the Director of Administration and Human Resources, Sir Kelechi Nwelue, the MD revealed that women currently constitute approximately 35 per cent of the Commission’s management cadre.
He described the summit as a strategic initiative designed to sharpen the capacity of female leaders and inspire a renewed commitment to their duties.
”The NDDC’s effectiveness is closely tied to the contributions of our female workforce. Empowering women creates a multiplier effect that fosters progress across the entire region,” Ogbuku stated.
Call for Integrity and Mentorship
The Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, Mrs. Tamunoibuemi Life-George, urged the directors to embrace transformational leadership.
She cautioned against the misuse of authority, stressing that impactful leadership must be visible in daily conduct and service delivery.
“Lead with integrity and serve as role models for younger professionals,” Life-George advised. “Synergy and mentorship are essential for collective growth within the Commission.”
Echoing this sentiment, the CEO of The Reach Nigeria Foundation, Mrs. Benedicta Ebiere Ayerite, charged the directors to build “intentional influence.”
She noted that for sustainable change to occur in the Niger Delta, leadership must be guided by accountability and a clear sense of purpose.
Beyond professional excellence, the summit addressed the physical well-being of female leaders. Dr. Ununuma Oguzor, a Consultant and Senior Lecturer at Rivers State University, emphasized the necessity of proactive health management.
Dr. Oguzor specifically advised women aged 40 and above to undergo regular medical check-ups and stay vigilant regarding early warning signs of stress-related conditions.
She recommended:
Regular exercise and adequate rest.
Proactive health screenings.
Seeking timely medical support for burnout.
The event concluded with a call for female directors to balance their professional responsibilities with personal well-being to ensure long-term service to the region.
