Sole Representative of The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, to NNPCL/ JV Partners, Dr. Edema Collins Oritsetimeyin, has begun moves to stimulate local entrepreneurship as well as provide hands - on technical and vocational training for Itsekiris.
Fresh Angle International, understands that the two empowerment initiatives, designed exclusively for Itsekiris are ; the Itsekiri Indigenes SME Grant Programme and the Itsekiri Skills Training Programme.
According to a statement released Friday April 10 by Dr. Edema, while the SME Grant Programme, will offer financial support to Itsekiri - owned startups as well as existing small and medium - sized enterprises, SMEs, the Skills Training Programme, is aimed at providing hands - on technical and vocational training across two delivery instructions.
Dr. Edema, explained that EI - Totuoma Weld School in Port Harcourt, will train Itsekiris on welding, fabrication and boat building, while UNIBEN Consultancy/ Petro - Tracking in Benin City, will train select - Itsekiris on pipeline inspection & NDT, natural gas processing, drilling operations, forklift operations, electrical & solar installation as well as crop production.
It was gathered that a combined total of 660 training slots, are available across both programmes.
The statement, emphasized: "The SME Grant Programme offers financial support to Itsekiri-owned startups and existing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), aimed at stimulating local entrepreneurship, creating employment, and driving sustainable economic growth within Itsekiri communities.
"The Skills Training Programme provides hands-on technical and vocational training across two delivery institutions — El-Totuoma Weld School in Port Harcourt (welding, fabrication, and boat building) and UNIBEN Consultancy / Petro-Tracking in Benin City (pipeline inspection & NDT, natural gas processing, drilling operations, forklift operations, electrical & solar installation, and crop production).
" Applicants are advised to review the eligibility and selection criteria carefully before applying.
"Only candidates who meet all stated requirements will be considered.
"Application Period: Friday April 10, 2026 – Thursday April 30, 2026
"To register and access full eligibility criteria, visit:
www.owpla.org
https://owpla.org/apply/uniben-consultancy-petro-tracking-technical-training-benin-city
https://owpla.org/apply/el-totuoma-weld-school-training-programme-port-harcourt
https://owpla.org/apply/itsekiri-indigenes-sme-grant-programme
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