The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has intensified efforts to promote women's economic empowerment by partnering private sector organisations to equip women across the Niger Delta with entrepreneurial skills and business development knowledge.
The initiative was unveiled during an empowerment programme organised to mark the 2026 International Women's Day celebration in Asaba, Delta State.
Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, said the commission was committed to helping women harness their talents, skills and local resources to create wealth and build sustainable livelihoods.
Represented by his Special Assistant, Dr. Godwin Edozie, Ebie urged participants to maximise the opportunity provided by the training, stressing that economic independence requires commitment, innovation and continuous learning.
He said the programme was designed to help women improve product quality and packaging, gain access to new markets and position their businesses to compete globally.
According to him, the commission remains committed to creating an enabling environment that supports women and girls to realise their full potential through inclusive development programmes.
"As we celebrate International Women's Day, we call on governments, private institutions, civil society organisations and individuals to work together to remove barriers, challenge stereotypes and build a more equitable society," Ebie said.
He added that the NDDC would continue to implement programmes that promote community development, strengthen partnerships and empower vulnerable groups across the Niger Delta.
The commission's Director of Culture and Women Affairs, Mrs. Ahunna Imoni, urged women to take advantage of the current administration's support for gender-focused initiatives to expand their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
She said women play a vital role in the development of families and communities, encouraging participants to apply the knowledge gained during the training to transform their enterprises into globally competitive businesses.
Imoni also advised them to explore financing opportunities available through the Niger Delta Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCTIMA), including access to low-interest loans.
In a presentation on business growth and sustainability, the Board Secretary of NDCCTIMA, Dr. Solomon Edebiri, said entrepreneurs must focus not only on starting businesses but also on ensuring their long-term viability.
He explained that sustainable businesses are those that remain profitable, resilient and adaptable while continuing to meet changing market demands.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Aniefor Ishioma from Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State, said the training had broadened her understanding of business management.
She noted that lessons on separating business capital from profit and maintaining proper financial discipline would help her expand her business and improve its profitability.
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