EMOIMEE Flags Off Second Batch of Skills Training for Over 100 Beneficiaries in A/Ibom

The NNPC/MPN Joint Venture EMOIMEE Host Community Development Trust Fund has officially flagged off the second batch of its skills acquisition programme for over 100 beneficiaries in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The ceremony, held in Ikot Ekong, drew community leaders, government representatives, traditional rulers, and beneficiaries who gathered to witness what stakeholders described as another milestone in grassroots empowerment and sustainable development.

Speaking at the event, Engr. Sunny Udo, Board of Trustees (BOT) representative for Mkpat Enin, expressed optimism that the initiative would serve as a catalyst for job creation, particularly among the youth.

According to him, beneficiaries will receive training in agro-based enterprises such as fishery, poultry, piggery, and snail farming, as well as Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and oil and gas-related skills.

“God has given us opportunities we never had in the past 15 years. Through EMOIMEE, we are developing our people and Mkpat Enin communities. We want to train and position you to grab opportunities that will come in various sectors,” Udo said.

He explained that the programme is designed not only to equip participants with employable skills but also to create a multiplier effect, where trained beneficiaries will, in turn, train others.

“My dream is that in the next three years, half of the youth in Mkpat Enin will be empowered. People will know Mkpat Enin as suppliers of quality pigs, snails, broilers, eggs, and more. All this is possible if you take your training seriously,” he added.

Dr. Joshua Ndoho, Secretary of the EMOIMEE Management Committee, commended Engr. Udo’s leadership and reiterated that the intervention aligns with sustainable development goals.

He emphasized that development cannot be measured merely by projects but by its impact on poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

“If poverty is increasing, there is no development. If unemployment is high, there is no development. EMOIMEE is aimed at reducing poverty and unemployment within the host community trust in Mkpat Enin,” Ndoho said.

He noted that 40 percent female participation has been incorporated into the training to bridge inequality gaps and promote inclusive growth.

“Without agriculture, there will be no food. We are training you in food production, ICT, and oil and gas to ensure sustainable livelihood,” he added.

The Clan Head of Ikpa Ibom, Ntebom Moses Ukpong, advised beneficiaries to take the training seriously and avoid complacency.

“This skill you are about to learn is for your own good. Do not do eye service. Tomorrow, you will be responsible for training others,” he said, while suggesting the provision of transportation support to ensure consistent attendance.

The traditional ruler of Mkpat Enin, HRM Edidem Akpan Akpan Ekpene, represented by the Village Head of Ikot Ekong, Eteidung Raymond Udia, praised the transparency and impact of the programme.

“We are witnessing transformation in Mkpat Enin. It is encouraging to see such impactful initiatives taking place here,” Udia stated, noting that EMOIMEE has helped many community members grow and develop discipline and consistency.

Rev. Obot Ekanem also commended the Akwa Ibom State Government under Governor Umo Eno PhD for creating an enabling environment for EMOIMEE to thrive.

He announced plans to employ 125 ad hoc teachers with monthly stipends and revealed that future projects would include recruiting nurses and doctors for local health centers.

Some of the beneficiaries, including Imaobong Linus, described the initiative as life-changing.

“This initiative is a game-changer. It’s giving us the tools and financial support we need to pursue our dreams and create businesses,” she said.

The EMOIMEE programme, established by ExxonMobil and now managed by Seplat Energy under the NNPC/MPN Joint Venture framework, is a community-focused intervention covering oil-producing areas including Eket, Mkpat Enin, Onna, Ikot Abasi, Mbo, Esit Eket, and Eastern Obolo.

As additional batches are expected to join the programme, stakeholders say the initiative remains a strategic effort to tackle socio-economic challenges in host communities while fostering long-term, sustainable development.