By Theresa Donatus, Uyo
In a bold step towards fostering local entrepreneurship, the NNPC/MPN JV EMOIMEE Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT) has distributed starter packs to 80 youth in Mkpat Enin LGA, following their successful completion of an intensive six-month skills acquisition program.
The beneficiaries, who received training in various vocational skills, were equipped with the tools they need to launch their own businesses and contribute to the economic development of their community.
The graduation ceremony was held recently at Dominion Academy in Ikot Ekong, Mkpat Enin, featured an inspiring address from Engr. Sunny Udo, the Trust representative in Mkpat Enin LGA.
In his speech, Engr. Udo emphasized the Trust’s ongoing mission to uplift local communities through skill development and entrepreneurship.
“The goal of the Trust is to use funds from Seplat Energy to empower our host communities. Today marks a significant milestone in that mission as we celebrate your hard work and commitment.
“These starter packs are a testament to your dedication, and I urge you to use them wisely to build successful businesses.
“Our vision is to see you become the next generation of entrepreneurs, passing on your knowledge and contributing to the cycle of empowerment. May God bless all your endeavors.” Udo said.
It was gathered that the beneficiaries received training in diverse fields, including tailoring, fashion designing, hairdressing, barbing, makeup artistry, and cinematography. Additionally, 14 individuals were trained in ICT and were provided with brand new laptops, while 10 others were trained in the oil and gas sector. Each participant was given the necessary starter pack to help establish their businesses, furthering the Trust’s mission of economic upliftment.
Samuel Monday Isaiah, a beneficiary from Ikot Enyienge, shared his excitement about receiving his starter pack. “I never imagined we would receive a full starter pack after the training. I’m incredibly grateful for this sewing machine and all the tools I need to begin my fashion design career. I thought we would have to invest our own money, but EMOIMEE has made it possible for us to start without financial strain. This is truly a blessing.”
Another beneficiary, Bright Saturday from Ikot Obio Otor, praised the Trust’s dedication to empowering the youth. “I’m so happy with my starter pack. I thank God for the knowledge I’ve gained, and I’m especially grateful to the EMOIMEE team for being so committed to our success. They ensured that we not only learned the skills but were also equipped with everything we need to start our businesses.”
Etinyene Nkereuwen Andre, from Ikot Afaha, expressed his gratitude to the leadership of the Trust. “We were promised that we would receive tools to match the skills we developed, and today, they’ve kept that promise. I want to especially thank Mr. Sunny Udo for his honest and transparent leadership. His integrity has ensured that the funds allocated for our empowerment were used properly. I am thankful to God for him and the entire team.”
The empowerment ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including, former chairman of the council area, Hon. Lady Mercy Bassey, Barr. Mfon Ekanem, the Trust advisor, the council of chief representative, women and youth wing were represented
The successful completion of this training and the distribution of starter packs marks a new chapter for the youth of Mkpat Enin. With the support of the EMOIMEE Host Community Trust, these young entrepreneurs are now poised to contribute to the economic growth and development of their community.
The Trust’s continued efforts to empower local youth aim to create a lasting impact, fostering a cycle of entrepreneurship and economic prosperity in Mkpat Enin LGA.
