RismadarVoice Reporters
July 4, 2026
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has donated relief materials to the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Rivers State Command, as part of efforts to support inmates amid the prevailing economic challenges.
The Commission said the intervention forms part of its humanitarian programme aimed at improving the welfare of vulnerable groups across the Niger Delta.
Presenting the items on behalf of the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, the Director of Social Services, Jeremiah Oritsejolone, said the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Commission’s commitment to people-centred development.
Oritsejolone noted that the economic situation has affected communities and institutions across the country, prompting the Commission to prioritise assistance for the most vulnerable.
“The NDDC recognises the impact of the current economic hardship on Nigerians. Although we cannot reach every community and institution at once, we deliberately identify those most in need to provide timely support,” he said.
He added that the Commission had already provided relief materials to several flood-affected communities this year and would continue extending similar interventions across the region.
According to him, inmates remain members of society who deserve care and support as many will eventually be reintegrated into their communities.
“The inmates in our correctional centres are our brothers and sisters. Supporting their welfare is an investment in the future of our society,” he added.
The Director also commended the NDDC management for sustaining programmes that positively impact lives across the Niger Delta.
Speaking at the event, the Director of the NDDC Rivers State Office, Engr. Okezie Ule, described the donation as a recognition of the vital role played by the Nigerian Correctional Service in maintaining peace, security and public order.
He commended correctional officers for their dedication, noting that their efforts contribute significantly to societal stability.
In his response, the Controller of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Rivers State Command, Richard Moses Williams, thanked the Commission for what he described as a timely and compassionate intervention.
He assured that the relief materials would be distributed fairly across all custodial centres in the state to ensure every inmate benefits from the gesture.
Also speaking, the Rivers State Coordinator of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Ambassador Ipalibo Madodoye, commended the initiative, saying it supports key global development targets, including peace, justice, inclusion and social welfare.
He pledged continued collaboration between the SDG Office and the NDDC to promote programmes that improve the lives of women, youths, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups across the region.
The Deputy Director of Social Services, Mrs Chioma Nwakwue, also applauded officers and management of the Nigerian Correctional Service for their commitment to the rehabilitation and welfare of inmates, expressing confidence that the donated materials would reach those in need.
