MGE Foundation trains over 4,000 Niger Delta residents in skills programme

…Ohanaeze donates N5m to support initiative

By Daniel Abia, Port Harcourt

A Niger Delta-based non-governmental organisation, MGE Foundation, says it has trained more than 4,000 people in various skills since its establishment in 2007 as part of efforts to reduce poverty in the region.

The foundation disclosed this during its 8th graduation ceremony in Port Harcourt, where 28 beneficiaries received startup kits, including sewing machines, gas cookers and laptops. The latest graduands bring the foundation’s total number of beneficiaries to 4,033.

Co-founder of the foundation, Barr. George Etomi, said the initiative was established in response to the loss of livelihoods caused by oil bunkering activities, which disrupted fishing, a major occupation in many Niger Delta communities.

He said the foundation decided to empower affected residents rather than dwell on the challenges facing the region.

“In those days, after graduation, you could go fishing or further your education. Fishing was a thing of pride. So when we saw what was happening, we decided to see how we could help people instead of getting angry,” Etomi said.

He said the foundation records about 90 per cent success among its beneficiaries and runs a one-year training programme aimed at equipping participants with sustainable skills.

“If God allows us, we will lift as many people as possible out of poverty,” he added.

Another co-founder, Dr. Mike Etomi, who joined the event virtually from London, stressed the importance of skills acquisition in the current economic climate.

He commended the Executive Director of the foundation, Ibifama Walaku-Saya, for sustaining the programme, particularly during the cashless policy period.

Walaku-Saya said the foundation’s mission remained focused on breaking the cycle of poverty through empowerment.

“Every year, we celebrate the success of our entrepreneurs,” she said.

President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta Mbata, commended the foundation’s efforts and donated N5 million to support its activities.

One of the beneficiaries, Maxwell Adoki, expressed appreciation to the foundation, saying the programme had given him direction and hope.

The foundation has also partnered with Bishop Abere School of Music to provide music training for students as part of its empowerment initiatives.