Dipo Olowookere
By Dipo Olowookere
As part of plans to support the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) in its human capital development initiative in the oil and gas sector and in compliance with its Nigerian Content commitments on the project, Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has selected 200 youths from the host community to participate in the six-month vocational training.
Executive Director, Capital Projects, Dangote Group, Mr Devakumar Edwin, described the initiative as a demonstration of Dangote Refinery’s commitment to building capacities and empowering youths in the country.
According to him, the programme was launched with the support of the NCDMB and in collaboration with the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), to train artisans on plumbing, masonry, welding, iron bending, auto mechanics and electrical works.
He said “the vocational scheme was geared towards instant value addition to the lives of the youths and their communities as they would be equipped with trade skills that would prepare them for better opportunities.”
The Executive Secretary NCDMB, Mr Simbi Wabote was represented at the event by the Manager, Gas and Refinery, Engr. Frank Ibi and he explained that Nigerian Content is geared to promote domiciliation of value-adding activities and utilization of indigenous human and material resources.
He charged the trainees to be disciplined and to harness the opportunity as the programme will equip them with basic skills for self-reliance.
The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu also attended the event and applauded Dangote Group for empowering the youths and providing them with even before it commences operations.
The Monarch also encouraged the youths to utilize the skills they will acquire, work hard and be close to God.
In his words, “you must appreciate the unique opportunity given you to be engaged in a programme like this. I enjoin you to take this seriously as it can be a step to change your lives completely.”
