By Young E. Freeborn, Warri
Chief Clement Ishokri, a prominent chief and leader of Unenurhie community, Evwreni kingdom in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State has urged the Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa-led state administration to attend to the needs of Unenurhie people by establishing a skill acqusition centre in the oil producing community.
According to the agriculturist, the skill acqusition centre would “remove prostitution and early marriage from girls, and also remove many of the boys from the streets and engage them in meaningful economic ventures that could put food in their mouths and money in their pockets.”
Chief Ishokri made this known recently at his residence in the community during the graduation of his son, Master Oke-Oghene Ishokri, who recently completed a three-year training/apprenticeship programme as a mechanic, specializing in the repair of generators, motorcycles, keke and other mechanical devices, under the supervision of Mr. Akpan, an accredited mechanic.
Chairman of the ceremony organised to mark the graduation, Engr. Jacob Ekpiten, thanked parents of the celebrant for providing the opportunity and the financial support that made the young man’s dream come to reality.
He commended Master Ishokri for his dedication, humility, perseverance and honesty in pursuing the programme despite challenges. Engr. Ekpiten however donated mechanic tools and a sum of money as starter pack for the celebrant to open his own workshop.
Also, special guest of honour at the occasion, Chief Napoleon Akpughe, who spoke briefly on the topic, ‘Importance Of Skill Acqusition For Our Children,’ asked the state government to establish a skill acqusition centre for young people in the community, “even while they are still going to schools.”
He equally enjoined parents and guardians to emulate Chief and Mrs. Clement Ishokri, to also provide such opportunities for their children/wards to acquire similar skills or trades.
High point of the occasion was the presentation of a proficiency certificate to the graduand by his master trainer, Mr. Akpan in the presence of his parents and other guests.