The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has clarified that it has not announced or released any list of beneficiaries for its Youth Internship Scheme.
In August, the NDDC introduced the internship program as part of its commitment to advancing President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda by implementing impactful youth development initiatives.
The scheme aims to equip 10,000 youths across the Niger Delta region with the necessary training and experience to secure gainful employment or embark on entrepreneurial ventures.
In a statement issued by the Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, on Tuesday, the commission warned the public against fraudulent beneficiary lists circulating on social media.
The NDDC emphasized that these fraudsters are not only spreading false information but also attempting to scam unsuspecting individuals by demanding personal information and payment of an acceptance fee.
“The attention of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has been drawn to certain lists circulating on social media, purportedly representing selected beneficiaries of the NDDC Youth Internship Scheme. Please note that the NDDC does not require any fees or payments for the placement of qualified youths in its internship program.
“We wish to clarify that no such list has been compiled, approved, or released, and any claim to the contrary is false. Those who registered for the scheme should note that the selection process is ongoing. The final list of beneficiaries will be drawn from the NDDC’s official database, and only those who were duly registered between August 5, 2024, when the registration was formally launched, and August 31, 2024, when it closed, will be considered,” the statement added.
The commission advises the public, particularly the eager youths awaiting the completion of the selection process, to disregard any unauthorized lists and seek information exclusively from official NDDC channels.
The NDDC assures stakeholders of its unwavering commitment to transparency and fairness in all youth empowerment programs and related activities.
The statement further read, “It is indeed disconcerting that some mischievous individuals are trying to take advantage of our youths who are seeking ways to be gainfully engaged in legitimate activities. Considering this unfortunate development, we urge our youths to be wary of these scammers.
“For inquiries about our empowerment programs, please contact us directly through our official channels. We also encourage beneficiaries of our programs to verify facts on the NDDC’s official website: [nddc.gov.ng] and social media handles.”
