By Kelvin Obambon
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing women’s rights and gender equality, describing women as the vital foundation of life and societal strength.
The declaration was made on Thursday in Calabar during the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration, organized by NDDC. The event, themed “Rights, Justice, Action for Women and Girls,” drew participants from across the state for a series of discussions and empowerment activities aimed at advancing women in the region.
Declaring the event open, the Commissioner representing Cross River State on the NDDC Board, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke PhD, emphasized that supporting women is an absolute necessity. Duke, who was represented by his Special Assistant on Administration, Barr. Ita Bassey Duke, praised the resilience and character of women when given equal opportunities.
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“For us in NDDC, we usually take a day out once in a year to celebrate women,” Duke said. “We want to say that at different times, whenever women are given the opportunity they show that they are laced with strength and character.”
He pointed to iconic figures such as Margaret Ekpo, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Dame Patience Jonathan, and Emmanuela Teguhu as exemplary leaders who have left indelible marks on society.
Turning to global advocacy, Duke strongly condemned cultural practices that undermine the worth and status of women. He called for collective action to dismantle these barriers, stating, “It is time to also show our support to them by lending our voice to harmful cultural practices against women’s rights, advocate for their rights, and celebrate them adequately.”
Speaking on behalf of the NDDC Managing Director and CEO, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the Assistant Director of Youths, Sports, Culture and Women Affairs, Dr. Esther Philip, noted that the commission utilizes its specialized directorate to celebrate the extraordinary contributions and leadership of women across the Niger Delta.
Dr. Philip noted that the 2026 theme serves as a powerful reminder that gender equality is a fundamental necessity rather than an option.
“Our MD, CEO, and the entire board of NDDC remain deeply committed to this cause,” Dr. Philip stated. “As such, the Commission continues to champion programs that empower women, amplify their voices, and instigate them to lead into leadership and decision-making for the development of the Niger Delta region.”
Addressing the economic aspect of women’s empowerment, a keynote speaker and Head of Accounts and Administration at the Niger Delta Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCITMA), Dr. Tamunonye Harry, urged women entrepreneurs to formalize their businesses to ensure long-term sustainability.
Dr. Harry explained that business growth and sustainability are deeply interconnected. He advised startup owners to focus heavily on increasing customer revenue, market value, and promoting innovation.
“Businesses start off with ideas,” Dr. Harry said. “First and foremost, for you to be a member of the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce and be a regular professional performer, you have to register your business. This will cost you nothing less than 17,000 Naira.” He added that formal registration is a crucial step that allows regional businesses to scale up and operate successfully over time.
The high-profile event concluded with the presentation of certificates to participants, marking another step forward in the commission’s ongoing efforts to drive inclusive development and female leadership across Cross River State.
