Bayelsa State Acting Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo has urged the Nigerian Content Development Monitoring Board (NCDMB), to engage grassroots stakeholders by incorporating diverse perspectives towards ensuring that their strategies were inclusive and reflective of the aspirations of all Nigerians.
Senator Ewhrudjakpo stated this while declaring open the 13th edition of the Practical Nigerian Content Forum held at the Local Content Towers in Yenagoa, the state capital.
Speaking on the theme, “Deepening The Next Frontier For Nigerian Content Implementation,” the Acting Governor urged participants of the Forum to move beyond dialogue to implementation with a view to ensuring that the outcomes of the conference drive real and meaningful change.
Senator Ewhrudjakpo, in a statement by his media aide, Mr Doubara Atasi, described the theme as forward-looking and enjoined participants to engage actively with a focus on transforming ideas into actionable strategies that would yield lasting impacts.
According to him, “leveraging technology and empowering local talent will create a vibrant ecosystem that promotes creativity, entrepreneurship and sustainable development.
The Acting Governor commended the NCDMB for their leadership and commitment to advancing Nigerian content that had established a framework for excellence and innovation.
He assured that:”Bayelsa remains steadfast in its collaboration with the NCDMB and other credible partners across various sectors such as energy, agriculture, healthcare and tourism which aligns with the state’s ASSURED Prosperity Agenda.
“Let us focus on building resilient and sustainable frameworks that enable communities to actively participate in emerging sectors particularly the digital economy. This will ensure shared prosperity and a future where no one is left behind.
“Together, we can redefine the landscape of Nigerian content implementation. By fostering innovation, inclusivity, and strategic partnerships, we can unlock new frontiers for growth and sustainable development.”
In his keynote address, the Executive Secretary, NCDMB, Engr. Felix Ogbe, highlighted some of the milestones achieved in the last 7 years to include commissioning of the new library at the Niger Delta University, Amassoma in partnership with Shell Petroleum Development Company and other joint partners.
Others include commissioning of the Kwale Gas Gathering and injection facility in Delta State, commissioning of 150 LPG in Kaduna state as well as inauguration of gas leak detection facility in Abuja as some of the achievements recorded.
On manpower development, Engr. Ogbe, noted that the NCDMB Academy has started training youths on different aspects of the oil and gas industry, adding that the board was committed to establishing more befitting zonal offices In Akwa Ibom, Rivers and Delta states.
Signed
Mr Doubara Atasi
Senior Special Assistant on Media
Deputy Governor
Bayelsa State
3/12/24
