The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has recently announced a new measure aimed at ensuring transparency and efficiency in the execution of its regional contracts. Indeed, the Commission has now made it mandatory for all its contractors to register with the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCITMA) to be eligible to carry out projects for the regional intervention agency.
This was announced by the Director-General of the Commission, Mr. Samuel Ogbuku, during a sensitization session on the establishment of the NDCCITMA in Calabar. According to him, the Commissioner representing Cross River State on the Commission, Mr. Orok Duke, the move is aimed at encouraging participation in the activities of the Chamber of Commerce and establishing a strong link between the NDDC and contractors to support and sustain their business activities.
Henceforth, any contractor working with the NDDC or wishing to do so will be required to register with the Chamber of Commerce. This registration certificate will be a prerequisite for entering into any contract with the commission. The aim is to facilitate access to financial support for entrepreneurs who do not meet the stringent requirements of financial institutions.
The establishment of NDCCITMA will complement ongoing programmes such as HOPE and IFAD, with the vision of supporting the President’s Renewal of Hope agenda that seeks to ensure a bright future for all citizens of the country. The Secretary of NDCCITMA, Mr. Solomon Edebiri, during the sensitization, stressed that the aim is to bring together different economic actors, with a focus on small and medium enterprises that will be the main target of this initiative.
This approach, although demanding, strengthens the collaborative work between NDDC, local entrepreneurs and the Chamber of Commerce to foster sustainable economic development in the Niger Delta region. By encouraging the active participation of local businesses, this initiative not only strengthens the regional economic fabric, but also contributes to building the confidence of local stakeholders in the region’s development processes.
Ultimately, the registration of entrepreneurs with NDCCITMA represents a significant step forward in the process of transparency and economic development in the Niger Delta region, while providing new opportunities and prospects for local stakeholders. This is a step forward towards creating a more inclusive and prosperous business environment for all.