NDDC To Train N’ Delta Youths In Shipbuilding

A number of Niger Delta youths are to be trained as shipbuilders to enable them take advantage of the global opportunities in the maritime sector.
The decision is also a part of the programmes of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to tackle youth unemployment and reduce restiveness in the oil-rich region.
The NDDC Interim Administrator, Effiong Akwa, made this known to newsmen.
Akwa, in a statement said the commission had a blueprint for turning the Niger Delta into a hub for maritime activities
Akwa, represented by his Special Adviser on Youths, Udengs Eradiri, said the first set of the youth would be sent to Norfin Offshore Shipyard for training in partnership with the firm.
He said: “You will agree with me that this shipyard is part of the development we need in the region to bring about economic growth, which is why we must support and protect it as ours.
“As part of Barr. Effiong Akwa, the sole administrator’s core focus, which is on youth development and training, we will be sending youths to this shipyard for training in the different fields to avail them the opportunity of becoming professional shipbuilders to enable them get jobs in any part of the world.
“Let me use this opportunity to call on the governors of the Niger Delta states to collaborate and support the NDDC to drive development, expedite projects, and build the capacity of the young people of the region to grow the Niger Delta of our dreams.”
The NDDC boss said the Commission would focus on developing the region in the areas of education, agriculture, and capacity building.
He added: “This administration’s core mandate is to ensure effective training and skills development programmes aimed at the youths of the oil-rich Niger Delta as an antidote to curb hostilities and militancy and in the same vein develop key infrastructure to promote diversification and productivity.
“We will be partnering with universities and colleges to upgrade their facilities to meet world-class standards to train youths in the oil and gas sector. This would prepare them for projects and job opportunities in areas that are currently in need of this skilled manpower.”