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January 15 Voters Registration, Realistic – INEC
About 37 days to the beginning of the voters’ registration exercise in Nigeria, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says there is no going back on the commencement of the exercise on January 15, 2011. The exercise will run for two weeks.
INEC chairman, Prof Attahiru Jega who stated this at a one-day stakeholders mobilisation forum on the 2011 registration of voters exercise and general elections in Port Harcourt, said the conduct of free, fair and creditable elections was sacrosanct.
Jega, represented by the INEC Supervisory National Commissioner for Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River States, Mrs Thelma Isemiren, said each polling unit across the country would be allocated a Direct-Data Capture (DDC) Machine to facilitate the success of the exercise in record time.
The INEC boss said the DDC machine would capture the biometric data of each registrant and eliminate double registration. He was categorical that those who indulge in double registration would be disqualified from voting during the elections.
The INEC boss said that the voters’ register when compiled would be displayed in accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act, adding that people would also have the opportunity to verify their names on the commission’s website.
The commission’s chairman told the people that INEC would engage the services of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to instill accountability and eradicate electoral malpractices during the election.
He promised Nigerians that the commission would collaborate with various security agencies in the country to create an enabling environment where the electorate could vote at polling units without molestation, adding that proper logistics arrangements were being put in place to ensure that voting commence on time.
Prof. Jega while reiterating the commission’s earlier promised on conducting free, fair and credible elections during next year’s general elections urged political parties to abide by the provisions of their various constitutions.
Earlier, in a welcome address, the Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Hon. Aniedi Ikoiwak stated that the purpose of the forum was to acquaint the people of the state of the preparedness of INEC on the 2011 voters’ registration exercise and elections as well as interact with the people with a view to conducting the exercises successfully in the state.
Hon. Ikoiwak said that the commission had held several meetings in the state towards creating confidence in the minds of the people on the commission’s determination to show transparency in its activities both in the state and the country at large.
Nkpemenyie Mcdominic
Reports say that the training is designed to equip youths with practical technical skills for employment in the oil and gas and construction sectors, with emphasis on employability, safety, competence and self reliance.
In attendance at the flag-off ceremony this week, at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Conference Hall, Effurun, were stakeholders, dignitaries, and political representatives, among others.
Dafinone, represented by his Chief of Staff, Adelabu Bodjor, said the initiative reflects a deliberate political investment in human capital development across Delta Central.
He explained that the training focuses on rigging and scaffolding, noting that “both are essential technical competencies required in industrial operations, construction projects, and oil and gas installations”.
Bodjor added, “The programme is intended to reduce dependency among youths by providing job-ready skills capable of supporting long-term economic opportunities and self-sufficiency. The initiative aligns with Senator Dafinone’s broader development agenda, which prioritises practical skill acquisition as a pathway to sustainable empowerment.”
Also addressing the participants, the NCDMB, Felix Omatsola Ogbe, represented by Mr. Teddy Bai, commended Dafinone for sponsoring the programme, describing it as “a timely response to critical manpower gaps in the industry”.
Bai explained that rigging and scaffolding remain safety-sensitive skills required across fabrication yards, offshore platforms, and construction sites, stressing that the programme bridges the gap between certification and practical competence.
He also charged the training consultant, OROH Contractors Limited, to maintain strict standards of professionalism, safety, and discipline, while urging participants to remain committed, focused, and disciplined throughout the exercise.
The Senate Liaison Officer for Sapele Local Government Area, Chief Patrick Akamuvba, , described the programme as a major step in strengthening human capital development in Delta Central.
Akamuvba said scaffolding and rigging skills are in high demand across residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects, noting that the training offers real employment opportunities for beneficiaries
He urged participants to prioritise knowledge and certification over short-term material expectations, stressing that discipline and seriousness would determine their long-term success.
He also cautioned youths against social vices and distractions, advising them to remain focused to maximise the opportunities provided by the programme.
