10,000 indigenous youths from the Niger Delta are now receiving N50,000 monthly stipends from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) as part of its Youths Internship Scheme.
Mrs. Seledi-Thompson-Wakama, Director of Corporate Affairs at the NDDC, disclosed this to journalists in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
She explained that the beneficiaries would undergo practical, hands-on training across the various organizations for 12 months to develop critical skills.
Recalls that during the inauguration of the scheme on 31 July, 2024, Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the Federal Government’s approval of a N50,000 monthly stipend for the trainees.
According to Thompson-Wakama, the commission has successfully completed the selection process and has begun placing trainees in organizations to gain practical experience.
“Consequently, with the completion of these phases, the payment of the monthly stipends has also commenced,” she announced.
She revealed that the 10,000 beneficiaries were transparently selected from over 3.2 million youths who registered for the empowerment program.
“This unprecedented response highlights the immense potential and aspirations of our youths to improve themselves.
“NDDC remains steadfast in ensuring this life-changing opportunity reaches the most deserving candidates, creating a lasting impact and paving the way for a brighter future,” she stated.
Thompson-Wakama explained that the scheme had enabled the commission to collate essential data, including the qualifications, skills, interests, needs, and employment status of the youths in the region.
The data, she explained, would guide the commission in designing programs tailored to address the unique challenges faced by young people.
She disclosed that the NDDC partnered with KPMG, a global audit and consulting firm, to enhance the commission’s corporate governance framework.
“KPMG has produced a Governance Advisory Report that will serve as a tool to support the commission’s transition from a transaction-based to a transformation-focused policy,” Thompson-Wakama added.
The director commended the youths for their patience and cooperation during the selection process for the scheme.
