The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has received the database for its Youth Internship Scheme.
The database was launched by the Senate President, Chief Godswill Akpabio, on August 5, 2024, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
A statement by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director of Corporate Affairs, noted that the database was received by Sir Victor Antai, Executive Director of Projects, on behalf of the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, at the Commission’s headquarters in Port Harcourt.
According to Antai, 10,000 youths selected across the Niger Delta region will receive a monthly stipend of N50,000 for one year.
Antai stressed that the registration portal for the initiative closed on August 31, 2024, while the selection process is ongoing.
While highlighting the scheme’s achievements thus far, he revealed that over three million applicants registered for the internship programme.
The Executive Director assured that the selection process would be seamless and transparent, adding that the Commission is working around the clock to ensure efficient and effective delivery for the beneficiaries.
He said that the NDDC engaged Southbridge Consultants to produce the database and provide an official breakdown of the information from the applicants for flawless project analysis.
To expedite the selection process, Antai said that the Commission also engaged another consulting firm, Angala Fintech, to oversee the selection of beneficiaries at both the state and local government levels.
He stated that, having received the database from Southbridge Consultants, it was necessary to hand over the documents for the internship scheme analysis to Angala Fintech, the lead consultant, for further processing.
Antai explained that the NDDC Finance Directorate would be responsible for the disbursement of funds to the selected beneficiaries throughout the one-year internship period, ensuring that financial support is delivered efficiently.
On his part, NDDC Director of Information Technology, Engr. Emeka Ani, commended the Executive Director of Projects for working tirelessly to ensure the success of the internship programme.
He expressed his gratitude to the Managing Director of Southbridge Consultants, Mr. Dagogo Tolofari, for developing a robust database capable of handling the vast amount of applicant data without any technical issues.
He noted that the database would not only facilitate the smooth execution of the project but would also assist the NDDC in planning future empowerment programmes for the youth.
He said: “We are excited about the potential of this internship scheme to create lasting change in the lives of our youth.
“The overwhelming response from applicants demonstrates a strong desire for growth and opportunity in our region.”
