The Cross River State Government has kicked off an intensive oil and gas skills training programme aimed at equipping 2,000 young residents with industry-relevant professional qualifications.

The initiative, themed “Skill Up in the Season of Sweetness,” provides beneficiaries with Continuing Professional Development (CPD) accredited certificates and diplomas tailored to modern energy sector standards.

Governor Bassey Otu launched the programme on Thursday, with the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem, representing him at the event.

Ayambem noted that the empowerment scheme directly aligns with the administration’s “People First Agenda,” which prioritizes human capital development and expanded economic opportunities for youth.

He highlighted that the training covers high-demand fields such as engineering, logistics, safety management, environmental services, procurement, and data operations.

“The responsibility of government is to ensure that young people acquire the knowledge, technical competence and professional credentials required to compete effectively for opportunities in the evolving global energy sector,” Ayambem stated on behalf of the governor.

Governor Otu urged the participants to approach the training with dedication, noting that the acquired certifications will serve as springboards for professional careers, entrepreneurship, and broader economic participation.

The state government reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining programs that foster enterprise, reward talent, and equip young people to drive sustainable development across Cross River State.