NDDC Inaugurates Niger Delta Chambers of Commerce to Spur Economic Growth

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Calabar — The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), under the leadership of Chief Samuel Ogbuku, Ph.D., has successfully established the Niger Delta Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCITMA), an initiative targetted at transforming the economic outlook of the Niger Delta region NEGROIDHAVEN can report.

The official announcement was made by Chief (Dr.) Solomon Edebiri, Ph.D., JP, MON, KSJI, during a sensitization workshop held in Calabar the Cross River state capital to mark the occasion. In his address, Edebiri praised the resilience and dedication of the NDDC management, particularly highlighting the pivotal role played by the Managing Director, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, and the Director of Skills Development, Dr. Winifred Mudume, in bringing this long-awaited project to fruition.

The process of establishing NDCCITMA began in February 2023, when Chief Ogbuku tasked Dr. Mudume with assembling a team of business leaders to spearhead the creation of the chamber. After 10 months of determined effort, NDCCITMA was formally registered by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) on 1st November, 2023.

“The establishment of NDCCITMA represents a milestone achievement that will enhance economic activities across the Niger Delta,” said Edebiri. “The chamber will serve as a vital platform for promoting commerce, trade, industry, and agriculture, and will support businesses of all sizes, from the informal artisanal sector to large-scale enterprises.”

Benefits to the Region

Edebiri outlined several key benefits of the NDCCITMA to the Niger Delta region. These include providing opportunities for capacity building through training and apprenticeships, fostering networking among businesses, and promoting global best practices. The chamber will also work closely with existing local chambers and the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) to strengthen partnerships and drive regional economic development.

Through NDCCITMA, businesses in the region will have access to strategic partnerships and increased market opportunities, both locally and internationally. The chamber is also expected to attract significant investment into the Niger Delta, boost security, and foster entrepreneurial growth through collaboration and trade financing.

Objectives and Vision

The primary objective of NDCCITMA is to serve as a catalyst for economic growth by promoting local businesses, supporting trade and commerce, and facilitating investment in the region. Edebiri emphasized that the chamber will play a crucial role in addressing skills gaps and fostering entrepreneurial development, which are essential for the sustainable growth of the region.

In addition to its broader benefits for the Niger Delta, the NDDC itself stands to gain from NDCCITMA. The chamber will provide the commission with a valuable platform for coordinating skills development programs, gathering data on regional businesses, and creating opportunities for youth internships.

Membership and Sectors

Membership in NDCCITMA is open to individuals and businesses across various sectors, including oil and gas, agriculture, marine, infrastructure, health, education, tourism, manufacturing, telecommunications, and more. The chamber welcomes members at all levels, from nano and micro enterprises to large-scale corporations.

In concluding his address, Chief Edebiri expressed gratitude to the NDDC Board of Directors and the business community for their support in making NDCCITMA a reality. “This chamber is a dream come true for the Niger Delta region,” he said. “We look forward to working together to achieve the economic transformation of our region.”