In a renewed effort to tackle unemployment and promote sustainable development, the Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) has relaunched its flagship Youth Empowerment Scheme (NLNG YES) in host communities across Rivers State, successfully training over 1,400 young people in 10 vocational and technical skills.
The relaunch ceremony, held in Bonny Island, marked a significant milestone in the company’s corporate social responsibility initiatives. The scheme, which had been temporarily paused, is now back with expanded capacity and updated curricula tailored to address modern labor market needs.
Speaking at the event, NLNG’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Philip Mshelbila, said the program is part of the company’s commitment to creating shared value and empowering its host communities with tools for self-reliance.
“We believe that real empowerment comes from equipping young people with relevant, employable skills,” Mshelbila said. “This scheme is not just about training; it’s about transforming lives, building businesses, and stimulating local economies.”
The 1,400 beneficiaries, drawn from Bonny Kingdom and surrounding communities, were trained in areas including welding and fabrication, ICT, catering and hotel management, fashion design, electrical installation, plumbing, photography, tiling, and hairdressing.
Community leaders and local government representatives lauded the initiative, describing it as a “game-changer” in a region where youth unemployment has been a longstanding concern.
“The ripple effect of this initiative will be felt far beyond the immediate beneficiaries,” said Chief Boma Godwin, a traditional ruler in Bonny. “It will create jobs, reduce social vices, and instill hope in our youths.”
Participants also received starter packs and mentorship support to help them launch their own businesses or secure gainful employment.
This relaunch is part of NLNG’s broader sustainability agenda, which includes investments in education, infrastructure, healthcare, and economic inclusion in its host communities.
With rising calls for greater corporate accountability and local content development in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, NLNG’s proactive approach is being hailed as a model for impactful community engagement.
source:businessday.ng
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