The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has started disbursing N50,000 monthly stipends to 10,000 indigenous youths from the Niger Delta as part of its Youths Internship Scheme.
Seledi-Thompson-Wakama, the NDDC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, shared this update with journalists in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
She explained that the participants would receive hands-on training at various organizations over the next 12 months to develop essential skills.
During the scheme’s launch on July 31, 2024, Senate President Godswill Akpabio revealed the Federal Government’s approval of the N50,000 monthly stipend for the trainees.
Thompson-Wakama stated that the selection process had been completed and placements in organizations for practical training had begun.
She confirmed that the stipend payments had now commenced.
Thompson-Wakama noted that the 10,000 beneficiaries were selected from over 3.2 million applicants, emphasizing the significant potential and ambitions of the youth in the region.
She assured that the NDDC is committed to ensuring this opportunity reaches the most deserving candidates and creates a lasting impact.
The scheme has also allowed the NDDC to gather important data on the qualifications, skills, interests, needs, and employment status of youths in the area.
This information will help the commission develop targeted programs to address the specific challenges facing young people.
Additionally, Thompson-Wakama revealed that the NDDC has partnered with global audit and consultancy firm KPMG to improve its corporate governance.
KPMG has provided a Governance Advisory Report to aid the commission’s transition from a transaction-based approach to a transformation-focused policy.
The director also praised the youths for their patience and cooperation during the selection process.
