Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Ede Dafinone, has flagged off a three-week capacity building programme on rigging and scaffolding for youths across Delta Central in partnership with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
The training programme, aimed at equipping participants with practical technical skills for the oil and gas and construction industries, focuses on employability, workplace safety, and self-reliance.
The flag-off ceremony was held on May 25, 2026, at the Petroleum Training Institute Conference Hall in Effurun and attracted stakeholders, community leaders, political representatives, and industry players.
Representing Senator Dafinone at the event, Olorogun Barr. Adelabu Bojor, the senator’s Chief of Staff, described the initiative as a strategic investment in human capital development across Delta Central.
Bojor explained that the programme concentrates on rigging and scaffolding because both skills are critical in industrial operations, construction projects, and oil and gas installations.
According to him, the initiative is designed to reduce youth dependency by providing job-ready technical skills capable of creating long-term employment opportunities and economic stability.
He added that the programme aligns with Senator Dafinone’s broader empowerment agenda, which prioritises practical skill acquisition as a pathway to sustainable development.
Speaking at the event, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, Felix Omatsola Ogbe, represented by Mr. Teddy Bai, commended Senator Dafinone for sponsoring the initiative.
Bai described the programme as a timely intervention aimed at addressing manpower shortages in the oil and gas sector, noting that the industry continues to face a shortage of technically skilled and industry-ready personnel despite the increasing number of graduates.
He stressed that rigging and scaffolding are highly specialised and safety-sensitive skills required across fabrication yards, offshore platforms, and construction sites, adding that the training would bridge the gap between classroom certification and practical competence.
Bai also urged the training consultant, OROH Contractors Limited, to uphold high standards of professionalism, safety, and discipline throughout the programme, while encouraging participants to remain focused and committed.
Also speaking, Chief Patrick Akamuvba, Senate Liaison Officer for Sapele Local Government Area, described the programme as a major boost for human capital development in Delta Central.
He noted that scaffolding and rigging skills are increasingly in demand across residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects, adding that the initiative presents real employment opportunities for beneficiaries.
Akamuvba advised participants to focus on acquiring knowledge and certification rather than seeking short-term material benefits, stressing that discipline and dedication would determine their future success.
He further cautioned youths against social vices and distractions, urging them to maximise the opportunity provided by the programme.
One of the participants, Onosigho Oghenewaire, described the training as a life-changing opportunity and expressed optimism that it would positively shape his future.
