By Rita Onuoha
Owerri, Imo State
As part of the global observance of International Women’s Day 2025, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reiterated its unwavering commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment across the nine states of the Niger Delta region.
Speaking at a commemorative event held in Owerri, Imo State, the NDDC’s State Director, Sir Kelechi Nwelue, paid glowing tribute to the vital role of women in the development of families, communities, and the nation at large. This year’s celebration, themed “Accelerate Action,” underscores the Commission’s ongoing efforts to advance inclusive development and ensure women are integral to its strategic vision.
“Women are central to everything we do at the NDDC, and that is why we celebrate you every year,” Sir Nwelue stated. “Your contributions to peace-building, development, and nationhood are enormous. We remain committed to supporting and empowering you.”
He highlighted the Commission’s 25-year journey as a transformative force in the region, adding, “Without a woman, there is no home, and without a home, there is no nation.”
Also speaking, the NDDC’s Director of Culture and Women Affairs, Mrs. Ahuna Imoni, lauded the gender-inclusive leadership of the Commission’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, whom she described as “a champion for women.”
“For the first time in our history, the NDDC is officially celebrating International Women’s Day across all nine Niger Delta states. No empowerment initiative is executed without considering the needs and contributions of women,” Imoni affirmed.
She noted a significant rise in the number of women in leadership positions within the Commission, describing it as evidence that women are not only support systems but also leaders, peace-makers, and agents of change.
The event featured several empowerment sessions, including a wellness and community health awareness talk delivered by the Imo State Commissioner for Health, Mrs. Chioma Egu, who urged women to embrace preventive healthcare and prioritise their well-being, especially in underserved rural areas.
Another highlight was a session led by Mrs. Chioma Greywood Ogu, titled “Gender Inequality and Discrimination: How Women Can Reclaim Their Place Through Emotional Intelligence.” She emphasised the value of self-awareness, emotional strength, and resilience in helping women rise above societal barriers.
“Emotional intelligence is a powerful tool that enables women to lead, advocate, and thrive—even in male-dominated spaces,” she said.
Participants expressed gratitude for the NDDC’s initiative. One attendee, Mrs. Charity Chukwu, remarked, “This event has reignited our confidence. We thank the NDDC for recognising the value of women and for providing a platform that uplifts our voices. We are returning to our communities inspired and empowered.”
The NDDC’s region-wide celebration of International Women’s Day stands as a strong message that women’s empowerment is not just symbolic but strategic, and remains at the core of the Commission’s development agenda.
