The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has organized a one-day stakeholders’ engagement and capacity-building workshop for communities within the Niger Delta, calling for stronger community ownership and protection of its projects. During the training sessions, participants were enlightened on key thematic areas of the Commission’s mandate, particularly on equitable development and the provision of sustainable and affordable livelihoods for people in the region. The guest lecturer, Ajibola Samsideen Shekoni, PhD, who spoke on the topic “Strengthening Community Ownership Framework for Sustainable NDDC Projects Monitoring and Protection Against Vandalism and Theft,” stressed the importance of community participation in safeguarding development projects. He noted that projects can only achieve their intended impact when residents within host communities take responsibility for their protection. Other guest speakers also underscored the need to ensure the sustainability and durabili...
By Joseph Abasi-Abasi Season 4 of MTN Champs has officially begun in Calabar, with organizers declaring the championship a critical launchpad for Nigeria’s sustained Olympic preparation through 2028. Backed by MTN Nigeria and technical partners Making of Champions (MOC), the youth athletics championship is now positioned not just as a schools’ competition, but as a structured pipeline to develop athletes for major international competitions over the next Olympic cycle. MTN recently extended its partnership with Making of Champions through 2028, guaranteeing Seasons 4, 5 and 6 of the championship. Stakeholders say the move provides stability and long-term planning for cadet, youth, junior and senior athletes as Nigeria builds towards the next Olympic Games. Speaking at the Season 4 launch in Calabar, MTN’s Chief Marketing Officer, Onyinye Ikenna Emeka, said the company remains committed to creating platforms that allow young Nigerians to compete locally and internationally. ...