The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), under its livelihood programme, has engaged youths of Ogoniland in training on commercial diving and underwater welding.
The training is being held at the Subweb Technical Training Academy in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The Project Coordinator of HYPREP, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, said the initiative, targeted at ex-artisanal refiners, provides an opportunity for them to transition from informal and hazardous activities to legal, safe, and sustainable employment.
Speaking during an orientation exercise for the trainees, Zabbey noted that illegal artisanal refining poses serious environmental and health risks. He added that the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Report on Ogoniland clearly outlines the devastating impacts of illicit refining on soil, water, and air quality, as well as its long-term consequences on public health and livelihoods.
Zabbey explained that the livelihood restoration initiative is designed to equip beneficiaries with skills, safeguard the environment and public health, and ensure environmental sustainability for the future of Ogoniland.
He urged the trainees to see the programme as a stepping stone to building legitimate and rewarding careers.
“The skills you will acquire in commercial diving and underwater welding are highly specialised and in demand, both locally and internationally. Therefore, it is an opportunity to redefine your future and contribute to national development.
“Today’s orientation programme is a critical component of the training schedule. It will provide you with essential information on safety standards, expectations, discipline, and the training structure. A strong understanding of these elements is key to achieving a successful and impactful training outcome,” Zabbey said.
He also encouraged the trainees to become ambassadors of change in their communities by raising awareness about the dangers of environmental pollution and artisanal refining.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of Mamba Underwater Diving Services, the facilitators of the training, Chief Lubabari Baaba, commended HYPREP for its commitment to equipping Ogoni youths with high-demand skills.
He advised the trainees to be disciplined and intentional about their participation in the programme.
Speaking on behalf of the leadership of Ogoni ex-artisanal refiners, Dr. Elvis Ikoma urged beneficiaries to take the training seriously, warning against a return to illegal refining activities.
“All these efforts by the government are to give you an alternative source of livelihood. If you do not take it seriously and return to vandalism or artisanal refining, the government will apply strict measures,” he warned.
Blessing Ibunge
