The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has announced a new requirement for its contractors across the region, mandating that they register with the Niger Delta Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCITMA) to qualify for contract execution.
This disclosure was made by the Managing Director of the NDDC, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, during a sensitization event held in Calabar. His speech was delivered by Mr. Orok Duke, the Commissioner representing Cross River State in the commission.
Ogbuku stated that the initiative aims to encourage greater participation in the activities of the Chambers and to strengthen the relationship between the NDDC and local entrepreneurs. He emphasized, “Henceforth, as a means to encourage participation in the activities of the Chambers of Commerce and benefit from its prospects, every contractor working with NDDC or intends to work with NDDC should register with the Chambers. Such a certificate will become a prerequisite for doing business with the commission.”
The NDDC’s intention is to ensure that NDCCITMA serves as a bridge between the commission and entrepreneurs, providing necessary support to sustain businesses, particularly for those unable to meet the stringent conditions set by financial institutions. Ogbuku noted that the successful establishment of the Chambers of Commerce would complement ongoing projects such as the HOPE and IFAD programs.
This move aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to create a more assured future for the people of Nigeria by fostering business growth and development in the Niger Delta region.