Posted by The Port Harcourt Telegraph on
Proof that the Rivers State Government is committed to the rehabilitation programme for ex-cultists emerged Friday. A total of 415 ex-militia who agreed to go along with the administration's plan to expose them to functional skills under the TAP scheme passed out.
... As they learn new skills, graduate
Proof that the Rivers State Government is committed to the rehabilitation programme for ex-cultists emerged Friday.
A total of 415 ex-militia who agreed to go along with the administration's plan to expose them to functional skills under the TAP scheme passed out.
It was perhaps, evidence the boys drawn to violence largely because there are no windows of opportunity could indeed be re-oriented if there is commitment on the part of decent society.
Speaking at the graduation of the ex-cultists selected from 15 cult groups, Governor Peter Odili said he was overwhelmed by the progress made by them.
He said the graduating participants were worthy examples of a new future in which skills could be acquired by all, and observed that their graduation would serve to convince those still on the fence in the cult world to come over to the path of progressive change and progress.
Said the elated governor, "Each of you will receive a transport fare of N10, 000 while you open a bank account at three designated banks for the state to lodge in N50, 000 each as take-off grant for the establishment of your learnt skill."
The governor was intermittently interrupted by thunderous cheers from the appreciative crowd at the Civic centre, venue of the occasion went further to pledge the support and encouragement of the State Government in form of the establishment of an industrial village with full and operational facilities.
"The State Government is determined to see you grow into millionaires in the next few years. The best way to the future is to use your hands to produce wealth", he declared.
Governor Odili however, warned against those who might be tempted to sell the procured equipment purchased by the State government.
"Resist the devil's temptation", he said, "to sell the equipment. It is meant to enable you practice the skill you acquire."
Odili lauded his wife for introducing the TAP scheme and acknowledged the role of the Commissioner of Women's Affairs Mrs Ibitoru Ofili in packaging the training programme.
As the governor put it, the occasion was historic.
Earlier, Mrs ofili had in her welcome address explained that the gathering was a celebration of kindness personified, self rediscovery and an assured future.
She noted that the youth training, rehabilitation and resettlement programme was designed to re-absorb the unemployed as well as those youths misled as a result of peer and other influences within society.