*Abak-Etim Ekpo, Nigeria – July 28, 2024* – A new training program aimed at providing valuable skills to local youth and women is officially underway. The five-day initiative, running from July 28 to August 1, 2024, at Independence Hall in Abak LGA, is sponsored by Hon. Clement Jimbo, a member of the Abak-Etim Ekpo and Ika Federal Constituency.
The program, conducted by De Atlantic Facility Management, focuses on silk plastering—a key finishing technique in the construction industry. This training is part of a broader budget appropriation for 2024, which began last year. The contractor has received approval to implement the project, and Hon. Jimbo emphasized the importance of this initiative in his address to participants.
“This project is not driven by current protests but is a result of long-term planning and budget allocations,” said Hon. Jimbo. He explained that Nigeria’s significant investment in the construction sector—comprising 60 to 80 percent of the capital component of the national budget—presents opportunities for professionals in the field.
Hon. Jimbo encouraged participants to explore various career paths within construction, such as screeding, plastering, POP installation, tiling, electrical work, and plumbing. “These are critical sectors with numerous opportunities. Our goal is to equip local youth and women with the skills to take advantage of these opportunities,” he added.
The first batch of the program includes 100 participants. Due to budget constraints, future batches will be rolled out as additional funds become available. The training is expected to help participants gain meaningful employment, providing them with a sense of purpose and direction.
In response to media inquiries, Hon. Jimbo stressed that this initiative is designed to address unemployment and reduce street crime by offering hope and direction to those in need. The program is anticipated to make a significant impact on the community by preparing participants for careers in the thriving construction sector.
Hon. Clement Jimbo Member Representing Abak, Etim Ekpo and Ika Constituency with the participants
