PORT HARCOURT, NIGERIA – The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is driving a bold shift from oil dependency to digital innovation, aiming to reshape the region’s economy and society by 2035.
Patrick Isicheli, Assistant Director of Business Applications and Training at NDDC, spoke on June 25 at the Niger Delta Digital Summit 2025 held at the EUI Event Centre, outlining the commission’s strategy to transform the Niger Delta through technology.
The region, long known for its oil wealth and environmental challenges, is embracing a digital revolution to foster socio-economic growth. NDDC’s plan focuses on three key areas: connectivity, capacity, and collaboration.
Patrick Isicheli, Assistant Director of Business Applications and Training, representing Dr. Emeka Ani, Director of ICT at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), during the 2025 Niger Delta Digital Summit in Port Harcourt.
Connectivity involves expanding broadband infrastructure to ensure internet access reaches every community, from Eket to Ogbia, by 2030. The commission is also working on affordable digital devices, reliable power sources, and local data centers, including solar-powered kiosks in rural areas and edge computing hubs in Port Harcourt.
Capacity building is another priority. Since 2012, NDDC has trained over 1,000 youths in computer literacy, web design, and data analysis. Programs have equipped many with skills to launch startups and create jobs. Plans are underway to introduce AI and blockchain training to prepare young people for the future digital economy.
Collaboration aims to unite government, private sector, and communities. The 2024 PH Tech Expo brought innovators and investors together, resulting in initiatives like the Port Harcourt Angel Network, which connects local startups with global funding.
Isicheli urged stakeholders to act now, envisioning a Niger Delta where tech hubs rival Nairobi, AI solutions restore the environment, and digital entrepreneurship thrives. He called on policymakers to prioritize digital infrastructure, innovators to develop practical solutions, educators to focus on STEM, and youth to seize digital opportunities.
A dynamic group of innovators and thought leaders at the 2025 Niger Delta Digital Summit: Aaron Esumeh, Co-Founder of Hardware Garage; Olusegun Ekundayo, HUB Manager at CTEC; Tosin Bukun-Joseph, Founder & CEO of SYL Multimedia; Enyie Peter Kere, MD of Tomkey Integrated Services; Prof. Olufemi M. Adesope from the Department of Agricultural Extension and Development Studies, Uniport; and Stella Justin, Founder of Kedrus Academy.Prof. Ndubuisi Ekekwe delivering a keynote address virtually via Zoom, sharing insights on digital transformation and innovation ecosystems at the 2025 Niger Delta Digital Summit.Panel session featuring Ebenezar Wikina, Founder of Policy Shapers and Convener of the Rivers 2050 Vision; Tobe Obi, Founder of Clargreen Technologies; Clinton U. Dandison, Executive Director of Aspire Climate Vanguard; and Stewart Ezekiel Jnr, Co-Founder of Harvoxx Tech Hub, with Geneiveve Megwa moderating the conversation on green tech, industrial innovation, partnership and funding.Dr. Chris Edeh, Director at Emmppek Group, pictured with Aaron Esumeh, Co-Founder of Hardware Garage; Tosin Bukun-Joseph, Founder and CEO of SYL Multimedia; and Tobe Obi, Founder of Clargreen Technologies, during a tech leaders’ session at the 2025 Niger Delta Digital Summit.A dedicated team of volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the smooth running of the 2025 Niger Delta Digital Summit.Preston Audu-Ohwavborua, Convener of the 2025 Niger Delta Digital Summit, delivering his address and setting the tone for a transformative dialogue on technology and regional development.Event MCs Honey Ojukwu and Koba keeping the audience engaged with vibrant energy and seamless coordination during the 2025 Niger Delta Digital Summit.Emeka Nobis inspiring the audience with a powerful message on innovation and digital empowerment at the 2025 Niger Delta Digital Summit.
Adekunle Owolabi is a journalist, political analyst, and digital strategist with experience across Africa and the Middle East. He focuses on international diplomacy, promotes digital inclusion, and advocates for a borderless Africa.
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