The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has commenced the training of 100 Ogoni youths in mechatronics engineering as part of efforts to provide sustainable alternative livelihoods and build high-end technical capacity in Ogoniland, Rivers State.
The four-month training programme, which began on Monday at the Offshore Technology Institute, University of Port Harcourt, aligns with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Report on Ogoniland and HYPREP’s mandate to address environmental degradation and socio-economic challenges in the area.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, HYPREP Coordinator, Prof Nenibarini Zabbey, represented by the Director of Technical Services, Prof Damian Paul-Aguinyi, said the initiative fulfilled the agency’s promise to transition Ogoni youths from low-level to high-demand technical skills, particularly in the oil and gas sector.
He explained that the programme was designed to prepare beneficiaries for emerging opportunities, including the anticipated resumption of oil exploration activities in Ogoniland, by equipping them with globally relevant technical competencies.
Zabbey noted that the training combines academic knowledge, industry practice and innovation, stressing that HYPREP deliberately partnered with the University of Port Harcourt to ensure quality delivery and exposure to best practices.
He urged the participants to take the opportunity seriously, assuring them of hands-on industry experience and practical exposure aimed at enhancing employability and entrepreneurship.
In his remarks, Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Prof Owunari Georgewill, commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting HYPREP and sustaining the Ogoni remediation programme.
Georgewill described the training as a strategic investment in the future of the youths and the sustainable development of Ogoniland, noting that mechatronics engineering plays a central role in modern manufacturing, automation and industrial innovation.
The training consultant and Managing Director of Competent Samco Technical Nigeria Limited, Mr Makozi Samuel, said the programme would include intensive theoretical sessions, followed by industrial exposure at the company’s Trans-Amadi facility.
He added that the training aims to foster creative problem-solving, teamwork, safety consciousness and ethical standards required in the modern digital oil and gas industry.
Blessing Ibunge
About the Author
