The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has urged youths in the Niger Delta to embrace modern technology and artificial intelligence (AI) as tools to drive partnerships, innovation, and human capacity development.

Speaking at the 2025 International Youth Day celebration in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State—organised by the NDDC in partnership with Ganvic Empowerment Initiative—Ogbuku said the event was aimed at fostering collaboration and partnership for youth advancement.

“We are in the age of technology, and AI is transforming industries globally. We want to encourage Niger Delta youths to tap into these innovations so they can be active partners in development, benefit from fresh ideas, and position themselves for global relevance,” he said.

He stressed that the Commission’s ongoing youth empowerment programmes have been successful due to strong collaboration with state governments, noting that the NDDC cannot work alone.

“We liaise with state governments, requesting nominations for beneficiaries, including people living with disabilities, to ensure inclusivity in our projects,” he added.

Ogbuku also advised youths to remain hardworking and proactive in their pursuits.

The NDDC Director of the Women and Culture Unit in the Youths Directorate, Mrs. Ahunna Imoni, described International Youth Day as a global platform to celebrate youth creativity and potential. She said it reflects the renewed commitment of the current NDDC board to youth advancement.

She urged young people to continually improve their skills to meet the demands of today’s world.

A resource person at the event, Mr. Aniekeme Finbarr, commended the NDDC for sponsoring the programme, noting that it would serve as an eye-opener and a catalyst for positive transformation among youths in the region.