Ogbuku Urges Youths to Embrace Hard Work, Digital Innovation at Bayelsa Creatives Converge 2.0
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has called on young people in the Niger Delta to reject shortcuts and embrace discipline, innovation, and legitimate opportunities in the digital economy.
Speaking on Wednesday at the Bayelsa Creatives Converge 2.0 in Yenagoa, Dr. Ogbuku said interacting with vibrant young creatives reminded him of his own journey — one defined by pressures, temptations, and the deliberate choice to pursue hard work and self-belief over shortcuts.
He told participants that every opportunity they seize should be viewed as an investment in their own future, stressing that background or environment must never be seen as a barrier to success.
“As youths, you are not working for anyone else — you are building your own future. Be proud of who you are and where you come from. Greatness often emerges from the humblest beginnings,” he said.
Dr. Ogbuku highlighted ongoing NDDC initiatives aimed at fostering legitimate and creative growth, including the Youth Internship Scheme, the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, and other programmes designed to support innovation, enterprise, and global digital relevance.
He also raised concern over the rise of cybercrime and cyberbullying, warning that the absence of punishment for some offenders does not lessen the harm of such acts. He urged young people to reject fraudulent shortcuts and instead focus their energy on the numerous opportunities offered by technology.
According to him, the digital space now offers limitless prospects — from software development and digital branding to working with international organisations and earning income from home.
“Technology is our pathway forward. Let us innovate. Let us build. And above all, let us choose the dignity of hard work over the illusion of quick gains,” he said.
