Twenty-five years after its establishment, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has declared that its most significant legacy is securing the future of children in the region through sustained investment in education, socio-economic growth, and infrastructure.
The Commission made this known during a colourful Children’s Day celebration held in Warri, Delta State, in partnership with the Indigo Bloom Health and Empowerment Foundation.
According to the NDDC, the event highlighted its enduring commitment to youth empowerment and the development of the oil-rich Niger Delta region.
Speaking at the occasion, Emavwoxia Oghenekohwo Irene, Head of Environment, Health, and Social Services (EHSS) at the NDDC Delta State office, emphasized the Commission’s belief that true development begins with investing in children.
“At NDDC, we believe that children are not just our future—they are the reason for every road we construct, every school we build, and every healthcare facility we upgrade. As we celebrate 25 years of service, we are more determined than ever to help our children grow in a world that supports and encourages their dreams.”
The day was marked by a series of activities promoting education, creativity, and social inclusion. A key highlight was the “Game of Intelligence” competition, where 11-year-old Praise Ogaga of Donnish International School emerged as the winner, displaying brilliance and confidence beyond his age.
Jennifer Nnorom, a consultant with Indigo Bloom Foundation, hailed the collaboration with NDDC as instrumental to the success of the event.
“This celebration was brought to life through the unwavering support of NDDC. Their belief in the power of children to shape the future of the Niger Delta cannot be overstated. With their help, we delivered mentorship, opportunity, and vision.”
For many of the pupils and parents in attendance, the event went beyond entertainment. It served as an affirmation that education, not shortcuts, is the way forward.
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Hon. Efeh Evelyn, Personal Assistant to the Chairman, Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), who also is one of the organizers of the program, addressed the popular but troubling notion among some youths that “school is a scam” and strongly disagreed with it.
“If school was truly a scam, none of us would be working at NDDC today. I’m here because I went to school. These children must understand that education is still the key,” she said.
A parent, Albert Abiye Sibi who attended the event with his child, commended the NDDC for what he called “a job well done.” He urged the Commission to sustain the effort, adding that children must be taught that success comes through education, not internet fraud.
“They should know that Yahoo is not the way. Education remains the best foundation,” he said.
With 25 years behind it, the NDDC used the celebration to send a clear message: Infrastructure is important, but the real foundation for a better Niger Delta lies in the minds and futures of its children.