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From Tony John, Port Harcourt
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reiterated its commitment to youth empowerment and skills development through advanced training in fashion and garment design to promote entrepreneurship and create jobs in the Niger Delta.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of 30 youths in Port Harcourt, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, said the beneficiaries were selected from 100 youths, who participated in the commission’s fashion design training in 2025, based on competence and passion.
Ogbuku said the commission had given the beneficiaries the platform and advanced skills needed to succeed in the fashion industry, urging them to build on the knowledge and keep improving their craft.
He said the commission had invested public funds in equipping them and charged them to use the training productively and not waste the opportunity.
He challenged them to become self-reliant entrepreneurs, establish their own businesses, create employment and transfer their skills to others.
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He urged them to draw inspiration from their training consultant, Mr. Greg Daniel, whom he described as a passionate fashion entrepreneur, and to seek his mentorship as they build their careers.
Ogbuku disclosed that the commission plans to train youths in artificial intelligence (AI) and other technology-related skills, describing technology as critical to tackling unemployment.
“Don’t be limited by your mind or where you come from. The people you see making progress today started somewhere. The dreams they nurtured have brought them this far. Do not be limited by your environment; believe that you can own a house through your fashion business,” he charged.
In his address, Executive Director, Projects, Victor Antai, described the programme as an investment in human potential, economic self-reliance and regional prosperity, designed to nurture entrepreneurs and strengthen the region’s fashion industry.
Antai urged the beneficiaries to embrace discipline, creativity, professionalism and integrity, and to prioritise customer satisfaction and sound financial management.
Similarly, Executive Director, Corporate Services, Ifedayo Abegunde, said the programme was designed to equip participants with practical skills to become productive and economically independent.
