NDDC MD Says Commission Is Broke

The Acting Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Prof. Kemebradikumo Pondei, has lamented the financial situation of the commission, saying it is unable to carry out some corporate social responsibility activities to support oil producing communities.

Pondei spoke when he received a delegation from the Etche America Foundation, USA, at the NDDC permanent headquarters in Port Harcourt on Thursday.

The American foundation had built a skill acquisition center in Etche, Rivers State.

Pondei commended the organization for the project but said the commission would have loved to support the project but was facing some financial difficulties.

According to the NDDC boss, “The skill acquisition center is a laudable project aimed at improving lives of the people of the Niger Delta Region. Though the budget of the NDDC had not been approved.

“I employ the promoters of the project to exercise patience as there was a limitation on the liquidity of the commission.

“Skills acquisition and human capital development are some of the key areas the Federal Government is using to explore youth engagement.

“We thank you for being altruistic, leaving the comfort of your base in US to return to give back to your community. This is commendàble and we urge other communities to emulate your efforts.”

He however said for the skill acquisition centre to be sustainable, the foundation must make a conscious effort to provide instructors.

“We hope that the center will not be limited to serving only people from Etche but should be open to all Niger Delta people,” he said.