By Emmanuel Thomas I Tuesday, August 04, 2026
ASABA, Delta, Nigeria — The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has partnered with private sector organisations across the Niger Delta region to train women on leveraging their skills, talents, and local resources for sustainable wealth creation and economic independence.
The initiative was highlighted during an empowerment programme organized to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) in Asaba, Delta State.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, represented by his Special Assistant, Dr. Godwin Edozie, challenged women to take practical steps toward financial autonomy through dedication and continuous learning.
Ebie urged participants to take the training seriously, explaining that it was designed to help them expand their businesses, improve product quality and packaging, access new markets, and compete in the global marketplace.
”As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we call on governments, private institutions, civil society, and individuals to work together to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create a more equitable future for all,” Ebie said.
Reaffirming the commission’s commitment to advancing gender equality, he noted that the NDDC remains dedicated to inclusive development, community engagement, and sustainable initiatives that empower individuals.
In her remarks, the NDDC Director of Culture and Women Affairs, Mrs. Ahunna Imoni, commended the participants for their resilience and hard work.
”Women are very important to society, whether they are educated or not,” Imoni stated, urging women to remain active in ventures that support their families and communities.
“The current NDDC board is a unique one which supports women’s affairs, so this is the time for women of the region to maximize it. When you empower women, you empower the family, community, and society.”
She also advised female entrepreneurs in the region to register with the Niger Delta Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCITMA) to access low-interest loans aimed at boosting small and medium-scale enterprises.
Delivering a paper on Business Growth and Sustainability, Dr. Solomon Edebiri, Board Secretary of NDCCITMA, emphasized that long-term success relies on maintaining profitability while adapting to market demands.
“Starting a business is an achievement, but growing it and ensuring it remains successful over time is the actual measure of entrepreneurial success,” Edebiri noted. He added that while growth expands operations and increases revenue, sustainability ensures a business remains resilient and socially responsible.
Expressing appreciation for the program, one of the participants, Aniefor Ishioma from Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State, shared that the training taught her practical financial management skills. She noted that she can now effectively separate her capital from profit to manage her business for long-term growth.