Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Dr. Ekperikpe Ekpo, has commended the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB, for its sustained investment in human capacity development, describing it as a critical step toward empowering Niger Delta youths with employable skills.
Ekpo made the remark during a visit to a training centre in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where selected youths from the Niger Delta region are undergoing a 21-day intensive training on Fire Alarm and CCTV installation.
The training, which commenced earlier this month, is one of several NCDMB-sponsored programmes aimed at equipping young Nigerians with hands-on technical expertise.
Speaking to the trainers, the Minister said, “I came here today unannounced to see things for myself and to encourage you. This opportunity provided by NCDMB is not just a training exercise, it’s a pathway to self-reliance, productivity, and national development. You must make the most of it.”
Ekpo stressed that the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, places strong emphasis on youth empowerment and technical capacity development as part of its strategy to drive industrial growth and reduce unemployment.
“The oil and gas industry is evolving rapidly, and the future belongs to those who possess the right skills. This training is designed to make you relevant, employable, and capable of creating jobs for others,” he said.
The Minister urged the participants to embrace discipline, commitment, and innovation as they complete the programme and return to their communities.
“What you are learning today goes beyond installing cameras or alarms; it’s about building a career and contributing to the local economy,” Ekpo added.
Representing the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, the Board’s Zonal Coordinator for Akwa Ibom and Cross River States, Mrs. Bertha Chukwemeka-Alaribe, commended Ekpo for his surprise visit and encouragement to the trainees.
“The Honourable Minister’s visit today underscores the seriousness of this government’s commitment to youth empowerment and skills development. At NCDMB, we believe that sustainable development can only be achieved through a skilled and self-reliant workforce.”
She applauded the trainees for their dedication and focus throughout the 21-day programme, urging them to apply their new skills to practical ventures in their local communities.
“You are ambassadors of the NCDMB’s human capacity development vision. Use what you have learnt to create opportunities, not just for yourselves but for others as well,” she advised.
The training consultant, Mr. Velly Awala, of Velebi Resource Nigeria Limited, expressed gratitude to the NCDMB management for the trust and support that made the programme a success.
“Beyond technical competence in Fire Alarm and CCTV installation, we also trained these participants on marketing and business development so that they can build sustainable careers and small businesses,” Awala said.
He emphasized that the programme’s goal was to produce a new generation of technicians who can fill the growing demand for safety and surveillance solutions in Nigeria’s oil and gas facilities and the broader economy.
The highlight of the visit was a practical demonstration session, where the trainees installed functional CCTV systems and fire alarm devices, showcasing the skills they acquired during the course.
“We now have the confidence to set up our own businesses or seek employment in the oil and gas and security sectors,” said one of the trainees, speaking on behalf of the group. “We are deeply grateful to President Bola Tinubu and the NCDMB for this life-changing opportunity.”
At the closing ceremony, participants received certificates and starter packs, marking the formal conclusion of the 21-day training programme.
The training in Uyo is part of NCDMB’s broader Human Capacity Development Initiative, which has successfully trained thousands of Nigerian youths across various technical field, ranging from mechatronics and marine operations to renewable energy and ICT.
With the NCDMB continuing to expand its local content mandate, the Board says it remains committed to empowering the next generation of Nigerian professionals who will drive innovation, safety, and productivity across the country’s oil and gas value chain.
“Every skill we develop, every youth we empower, is an investment in Nigeria’s sustainable future,” Mrs. Chukwemeka-Alaribe concluded.
