The Commissioner representing Akwa Ibom State on the Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Apostle Abasiandikan Nkono, has congratulated successful applicants for the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) training organised by the Commission in collaboration with Viendenburg Energy Resources.
Apostle Nkono made the commendation on Monday during the flag-off ceremony of the NDDC CNG Autogas Conversion Training programme, held at the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
The event brought together participants from across the nine mandate states of the Commission.
The Commissioner described the initiative as proof of the Commission’s commitment to human capital development and charged the trainees to position themselves as solution providers by embracing the opportunities inherent in the nation’s shift to CNG.
He noted that the programme is designed to ensure that the region produces the technical manpower required to drive Nigeria’s emerging autogas economy.
“I stand before you today and see sons and daughters of the entire Niger Delta who have been given an opportunity to shape the future of our region and nation. This training is proof that the NDDC is deliberate about equipping our people with skills that matter in today’s world,” Apostle Nkono said.
He urged the beneficiaries to approach the training with seriousness and a vision that extends beyond mere certification.
“I want you to see yourselves as solution providers. The world is changing, and the problems of today are the business opportunities of tomorrow. Develop the big eye to spot opportunities where others see problems.
“Whether it is in energy, technology, or skills, our people must be able to hold their own anywhere in the world.
“This programme ensures that when the world looks to Nigeria for autogas expertise, they will find Niger Deltans ready to deliver,” the Commissioner charged.
He also used the occasion to reassure the beneficiaries of the current NDDC Board’s unwavering commitment to their welfare and that of all Niger Deltans.
“We are here today because this Commission is committed to promoting the welfare of Niger Deltans. We want to make sure that Niger Deltans do not lag behind globally.”
The event drew a distinguished array of dignitaries, including the Executive Director of Projects, Hon. Victor Antai, who represented Chief Samuel Ogbuku, the NDDC Managing Director; Hon. Kufreabasi Edidem, Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly; Olayinka Rufai of the Presidential CNG Directorate; and Professor Enoidem Usoro, Rector of the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre, among others.
