The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has stressed the importance of building stronger families and communities, stating that it will continue investing in the development of the boy child across the Niger Delta region.

Speaking at the 2026 NDDC Day of the Boy Child celebration in Port Harcourt, the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said the event reflected the Commission's collective responsibility to nurture boys into responsible, confident and productive young men who would contribute positively to their families, communities and the nation.

Ogbuku, who was represented by the NDDC Director of Social Services, Engr. Jeremiah Oritsejolomi, noted that the Commission remained committed to human capital development as a driver of sustainable regional growth, stating that the Day of the Boy Child initiative was being implemented across the Commission's nine mandate states, with the theme: "Flourish and Thrive: Investing in the Boy Child for Stronger Families and Communities."

"We are investing in the future of the boy child through education, mentorship, leadership development, positive values and life skills that will prepare them for meaningful roles in society," he said.

The Managing Director urged the participants to take advantage of the knowledge, guidance and inspiration provided during the programme, noting that they should believe in themselves, pursue excellence, and strive to become leaders of integrity and positive change.

The NDDC Director, Education, Health and Social Services, Dr Patience Ezugu, emphasised the deliberate investment in the education, mentorship, health and character development of the boy child, stressing that every boy deserves the opportunity to grow in a safe and supportive environment to realise his full potential and become a responsible member of society.

Ezugu encouraged participants to embrace the lessons, mentorship and opportunities from the programme. She urged them to be inspired by the experience and uphold integrity to add value to their communities and the nation.

In her speech, the Director of Education, Dr Angela Chukwudifu, urged the participants to reflect on the lessons learnt during the programme and apply them to become responsible young men who would positively shape society.

Delivering a health talk, the NDDC Director of Health, Dr Anthony Umezurike, urged the boys to take their physical and mental health seriously by embracing good nutrition, regular exercise and healthy lifestyles while avoiding substance abuse.

"Many young boys are tempted to smoke, abuse drugs and engage in harmful habits without understanding the long-term consequences. Avoid anything that can damage your mental health and destroy your future," he advised.

The Executive Director, BoyChild Support Network, Mr. Irimiagah Paul, reminded the participants that every great leader was once a boy and that success depended more on the choices made than on one's background.

He urged the boys not to define themselves by other people's opinions but by their values, character and purpose.

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Eze Fortune Solomon of Baptist High School and Ayooluwamide John of Praise El School expressed appreciation to the NDDC for organising the programme, describing it as inspiring and life-changing.

•PHOTO, L-R: Second row, the NDDC officials, Mrs.Shittu Angela; Deputy Director, EHSS, Mrs Ake Ebioboere; Deputy Director, EHSS, Mrs Monica Fobruku; Manager, EHSS, Mr John Okechukwu Ahamefuna and the Consultant, Amb. Mrs Argonimi David-Imeh, pose with students during the 2026 NDDC Boy Child Celebration in Port Harcourt.

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