From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing women’s development and leadership within the Commission as part of its broader mandate to foster sustainable development in the Niger Delta region.
Speaking at a summit for the Commission’s female directors in Port Harcourt, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, commended the contributions of female directors to the development of Nigeria’s oil-rich region.
Ogbuku, who was represented by the Director of Administration and Human Resources, Sir Kelechi Nwelue, emphasised the essential role of women in society, noting that no institution could thrive without their active participation. He encouraged them to remain steadfast in discharging their duties, stressing that the NDDC’s effectiveness was closely tied to their contributions.
The Managing Director observed that women constitute about 35 per cent of the Commission’s management cadre and described the summit as an eye-opening initiative designed to strengthen the capacity of female directors and inspire greater commitment to their responsibilities. He also underscored the importance of mentorship, noting that empowering women creates a multiplier effect that fosters progress.
In her remarks, the Chairperson of FIDA Nigeria, Rivers State Branch, Mrs Tamunoibuemi Life-George, emphasised the need for synergy, mentorship, and exemplary leadership. She advised directors to lead with integrity, avoid misuse of authority, and serve as role models for younger professionals. She highlighted the importance of transformational leadership and collective growth, stressing that impactful leadership must be visible in daily conduct and service delivery.
Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of The Reach Nigeria Foundation, Mrs Benedicta Ebiere Ayerite, urged female directors to build intentional influence within their workplaces. She noted that leadership influence must be guided by integrity, accountability, and a clear purpose, adding that the positive use of authority was essential to achieving sustainable change within the NDDC and the region.
In her presentation, a Consultant and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Family Medicine at Rivers State University, Dr Ununuma Oguzor, stressed the importance of health and wellness for female leaders. She encouraged regular medical check-ups, particularly for women aged 40 and above, and stressed the need for proactive health management. She also highlighted early warning signs of stress-related conditions and advised participants to adopt healthy lifestyles, including regular exercise, adequate rest, and seeking medical support when necessary.
