Calabar–In commemoration of the upcoming International Youth Day, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) organized a 3-day youth summit in Cross River state, focusing on the role of young people in fostering peace and development in the Niger Delta region. The event, held at Hogis Hotel in Calabar, was a collaborative effort between the NDDC and 360 Degree for Women Empowerment, aimed at channeling youth energy into productive economic ventures and addressing pressing national challenges NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
The summit, themed “The Role of Youth in the Sustenance of Peace and Development in the Niger Delta Region,” brought together young people from across the state to discuss critical issues such as insecurity, unemployment, poverty, and youth restiveness. It also emphasized the importance of conflict management and resolution in the region.
Speaking at the closing ceremony on Friday Onyekachi Nwamkpa, a representative of 360 Degree Empowerment for Women, highlighted the summit’s focus on leveraging digital technologies for sustainable growth. He noted that the event provided youths with opportunities to network and explore the potential of the digital economy.
“Today marks a significant celebration, and we’re excited to introduce sustainable development digital technologies, including mobile device services and artificial intelligence, to advance the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” Nwamkpa said.
He added, “We believe the youths present here today will greatly benefit from the insightful lectures and networking opportunities. We’re honored to host this event and hope that every participant gains valuable knowledge and insights.”
In his closing remarks, the Cross River State Director of the NDDC, Dr. Daniel Ajunwa, expressed gratitude to the participants for their commitment to learning and self-improvement. Represented by Dr. (Mrs.) Eme Inyang-Abia, Assistant Director of Agric/Fisheries, Ajunwa commended the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for bringing the International Youth Day celebration to the state.
“We’re grateful to the Managing Director for this initiative. Today, we’ve gathered to learn, make new friends, and celebrate. As the saying goes, ‘No one has a monopoly of knowledge.’ I’ve learned so much from our facilitators, especially about improving my finances in today’s Nigeria. We all need multiple streams of income, and I’ve discovered new ways to use my phone to make money,” Ajunwa stated.
He further emphasized the importance of the summit in empowering youths to improve their productivity and livelihoods. “We’ve been exposed to the multiple uses of our phones and other facilities to better our lives. We’re more than just restless youths; we’re here to improve our productivity, livelihoods, and the lives of those around us,” he added.
The summit featured panel discussions, idea-sharing sessions, cultural displays, and the presentation of certificates to participants. It also provided a platform for youths to connect, exchange ideas, and explore innovative solutions to the challenges facing the Niger Delta region.
The event underscored the NDDC’s commitment to youth empowerment and its role in driving sustainable development in the Niger Delta. As the International Youth Day approaches, the summit has set the stage for young people in Cross River State to play a more active role in shaping the future of their communities.
