Report on the NDCCITMA Sensitization Workshop in Delta State Venue: Kim Royal Hotel & Suites, Asaba Date: 14th October 2024 1. Attendees The workshop was graced by several notable dignitaries, including: The Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Hon. Commissioner for Economic Planning, Hon. Sonny Ekedayen. DACCIMA President and Chairman of the Board, Chief Anthony Idigbe SAN, PhD, represented by DACCIMA Secretary, Hon. Isioma Okolie. Past Presidents of DACCIMA, Chief Uju Udeme and Chief Simon Asite. DACCIMA 2nd Deputy, Rev. Lucky Otegheri. DACCIMA Director General, Mr. Fidelis Onu. NASME Chairman, Mr. Obiora. Also in attendance were representatives from various associations, women’s groups, the press, and members of the public. Upon arrival, attendees received programs of events and souvenirs. 2. Venue Conditions The venue fell short of the standard observed at a similar workshop in Port Harcourt. The hall, though filled to capacity, was less spacious and had inadequate air conditioning. Additionally, the conveniences were insufficient for the number of participants. 3. Welcome Addresses and Goodwill Messages The welcome addresses were delivered on behalf of: Chief Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), by the Executive Director Projects. Ambassador Idaere Gogo Ogan, Chairman of NDCCITMA, by the Secretary to the Commission. Goodwill messages followed from: The Executive Governor of Delta State, represented by the Commissioner for Economic Planning. The DACCIMA President, represented by the DACCIMA Secretary. Chief Uju Udeme and NASME Chairman, Mr. Obiora. In his message, the NDDC Managing Director emphasized a shift from transactional to transformational engagements to ensure sustainability in the Niger Delta region. The DACCIMA President, in his remarks, highlighted the importance of collaboration between the association and NDCCITMA, stressing the need for businesses to be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and belong to one of the five city chambers under DACCIMA for proper mentorship. 4. Presentations by Resource Persons

Engr. Omonigho Otanocha PhD:

Delivered a presentation titled, “Economic Viability of the Niger Delta Region: Exploring Hidden Treasures with Impactful Outcomes.” He explored opportunities in youth engagement, enterprise development, climate action, and engineered systems. Highlighting areas such as agricultural development, aquaculture, carbon economy, and sustainable energy, he underscored the role of universities, like the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, in community development.

Tobore Olumoye:

Presented a paper on “Enhancing Economic Viability through Collaboration with NDCCITMA.” She urged participants to develop a strong aversion to poverty, and her presentation focused on natural resources, emerging sectors, government policies, and the need for financial literacy in every home. She emphasized the immense potential within the global digital economy and encouraged attendees to seek training and mentorship.

Dr. Prince Nwosa:

His presentation, “Accelerating Regional Economic Integration through Strategic Cooperation with NDCCITMA,” focused on Delta State’s strategic location and resources. He encouraged using the state’s sociocultural diversity as a strength in driving economic growth. As a proud son of Delta, he passionately called for unity to harness the state’s economic potential.

Onyebuchi Obeta Esq.:

Presented on “Membership and the Role of Government in the Operations of Chambers of Commerce.” He reiterated the importance of businesses being duly registered with CAC, aligning with the earlier remarks of the DACCIMA President. His paper outlined 16 objectives for chambers of commerce, highlighting the necessity for collaboration between businesses and legal entities, and noted that NDCCITMA operates as a non-profit organization registered as a company limited by guarantee.

Question and Answer Session

An interactive Q&A session was conducted, where the audience posed questions to the resource persons and the NDDC Secretary, Chief Solomon Edebiri.

Closing Remarks

Rev. Lucky Otegheri, DACCIMA’s 2nd Deputy, provided closing remarks, stressing the importance of continued partnership between DACCIMA and NDCCITMA. The event was concluded with a closing prayer. 7. Refreshments Refreshments were served during and after the workshop.