By Paul Olayemi

The Senator representing Delta Central, Ede Dafinone has officially flagged off a three-week capacity building programme on rigging and scaffolding for youths in Delta Central Senatorial District in partnership with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

The training programme 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.

Representing the Senator at the flag-off ceremony, Chief Adelabu Bojor, Chief of Staff to Senator Dafinone, said the initiative reflects a deliberate political investment in human capital development across Delta Central.

Bojor explained that the training focuses on rigging and scaffolding, describing both as essential technical competencies required in industrial operations, construction projects, and oil and gas installations.

He said the programme is intended to reduce dependency among youths by providing job-ready skills capable of supporting long-term economic opportunities and self-sufficiency.

According to him, the initiative aligns with Senator Dafinone’s broader development agenda, which prioritises practical skill acquisition as a pathway to sustainable empowerment.

Speaking at the event, Mr Teddy Bai, who represented Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), commended Senator Dafinone for sponsoring the programme, describing it as a timely response to critical manpower gaps in the industry.

Bai noted that the initiative aligns with NCDMB’s mandate of developing local content capacity, adding that the oil and gas sector continues to face shortages of industry-ready technical personnel despite the growing number of graduates.

He 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.

Also speaking, Chief Patrick Akamuvba, Senate Liaison Officer for Sapele Local Government, 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 in order to maximise the opportunity provided by the programme.

Another participant, Onosigho Oghenewaire, described the initiative as a life-changing opportunity and expressed confidence that it would positively transform his future prospects.

The event, which attracted stakeholders, dignitaries, and political representatives, was held at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Conference Hall, Effurun, on May 25, 2026.