Admin I Friday, Dec 12.25
PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria — The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has thrown its support behind a new civic sensitization campaign, “Project New Nigeria,” signaling a move toward prioritizing citizen empowerment and inclusive governance in the oil-rich region.
The initiative, organized by the Foundation for Citizens Empowerment and Sensitisation on Civic Responsibility Initiative, was formally launched at the University of Port Harcourt, drawing commendations from key regional leaders and educational figures.
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the NDDC Managing Director, pledged the Commission’s support, noting that the project aligns directly with President Bola Tinubu’s national “Renewed Hope Agenda.” That agenda, he noted, places a strong emphasis on youth empowerment, rebuilding public trust in democratic institutions, and promoting civic responsibility.
”It also resonates with the current vision of the NDDC management, which is deliberately shifting the Commission’s operation from a transactional approach to a transformational development mandate, one that prioritizes people, communities and sustainable impact above all else,” stated Dr. Ogbuku, whose remarks were delivered by Mrs. Chioma Nwakwue, the Deputy Director for Education, Health and Social Services. Dr. Ogbuku praised the campaign’s organizers, calling the timing of the launch “timely and strategic.”
He stressed the necessity of bolstering democratic engagement, particularly among young people, as a foundational step toward national development. “Strengthening democratic participation, especially among our young people, is a critical step towards building the Nigeria that we want,” he added.
The event featured strong appeals for greater youth participation in the nation’s democratic structures. Senator Mao Ohanbunwa, Pro Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, reminded students and young attendees of the power they hold as active participants in the democratic process, urging them to engage robustly with democratic institutions.
Similarly, Professor Owunari Georgewill, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, expressed encouragement over Nigerian youth becoming involved in positive causes like advocating for inclusive governance.
Earlier, the Convener of Project New Nigeria, Mr. Samuel Nzidee, commended the NDDC for its efforts toward sustainable transformation in the Niger Delta, underscoring the vital need for all stakeholders to partner and participate in the quest to develop the region.
