Oritsegbubemi Omatseyin
Lagos — The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB, marked a significant milestone with the commencement of the sixth batch of the electric house wiring training programme at the Akangba Regional Training Centre of the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria, NAPTIN, in Lagos.
The opening and kick-off ceremony which was attended by key industry stakeholders had 50 trainees selected across the country for the three-week exercise signifying the Board’s commitment to capacity building, youth empowerment, and expected impact on Nigeria’s power sector and economy.
In his remarks, the General Manager of the Capacity Building Division of NCDMB, Mr. Augustine Timbiri, who was represented by the Supervisor, CBD, Mr. Tobin Spiff, conveyed the Board’s commitment to developing local capacity in collaboration with NAPTIN. Mr. Timbiri emphasised the importance of the electric house wiring training programme in bridging skill gaps and reducing dependence on foreign expertise in the power sector. He urged the trainees to exhibit commitment and dedication throughout the training period, emphasising the critical role of attitude in complementing technical skills.
The General Manager hinted that the electric house wiring training programme was tailored to equip Nigerian youths with essential skills in electrical installation, noting that it holds significant promise for the nation’s economic development. With a focus on enhancing local content and empowering indigenous talent, the programme, according to him, aims to create a pool of certified installers capable of meeting the growing demand for electrical services across various sectors.
He stressed that throughout the training programme, participants will receive comprehensive instruction and hands-on experience in electrical house wiring culminating in the issuance of two certificates, a Certificate of Attendance from NAPTIN and a Personal License to Practice in the power sector. The latter certification, awarded based on competence assessment, grants trainees the authority to engage in electrical installations independently or under supervision.
Speaking earlier in a welcome address, the Director General of NAPTIN, Mr. Ahmed Bolaji Nagode, represented by the Deputy Director, Training, Engr. Abdullahi Aliyu, highlighted the importance of the programme in addressing critical gaps in the power sector. Mr. Nagode emphasised the role of NAPTIN in providing essential training and capacity-building initiatives to support the nation’s power infrastructure development.
He underscored the significance of qualified installers in powering the nation’s facilities and the imperative need to reduce reliance on uncertified installers to enhance safety and efficiency.
Others who spoke at the ceremony were the Director, Legal, Kunle Oyenusi, Esq. and the Manager, Regional Training Centre, Akangba & Ijora, Engr. Ayoola Ramoni. The officials charged the trainees to be of good comportment throughout the training exercise.
The electric house wiring training programme represents a collaborative effort between NCDMB and NAPTIN to strengthen Nigeria’s power infrastructure and foster economic growth through local capacity development. By equipping Nigerian youths with essential skills and certifications, the programme aims to promote job creation, enhance safety standards, and contribute to the nation’s energy security objectives.