By Tina Chinyere– Port Harcourt
One hundred Ogoni youths have completed a three-month intensive training in solar energy installation and maintenance, organized by the Lekeh Development Foundation (LDF) in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme–Global Environment Facility (UNDP-GEF) Small Grant Programme.
The graduation ceremony, which took place in Bori, headquarters of Khana Local Government Area, Rivers State, celebrated the empowerment of young men and women with practical renewable energy skills aimed at promoting clean energy adoption and sustainable livelihoods in Ogoniland.
In his remarks, the Executive Director of LDF, Friday Nbani, said the training was initiated to equip Ogoni youths with employable skills while addressing the challenges of unemployment and environmental degradation in the region.
“For years, our people have suffered from the impact of oil spills, gas flaring, and flooding that have destroyed traditional livelihoods like fishing and farming. This solar project is our way of creating new opportunities for youths to build sustainable careers through clean energy. We appreciate the UNDP-GEF for supporting this vision,” Nbani stated.
He added that the trainees have formed a cooperative society that will soon be registered as a solar enterprise to enable them to work independently and collaborate with renewable energy companies in Port Harcourt and beyond.
Also speaking, HRH Mene Godwin Apere, the Mene Bua and Paramount Ruler of Kaani, commended the foundation for its contribution to youth empowerment and sustainable development.
“This initiative has given our youths a new direction. Solar energy represents progress, and I urge the beneficiaries to make good use of this opportunity, improve their skills, and empower others,” he said.
Similarly, Melody Barry-Yobo, Program Coordinator of LDF, described the project as a transformational step toward community-driven renewable energy solutions.
“These 100 graduates are now trained solar technicians ready to provide clean energy to homes and businesses. We encourage UNDP-GEF to expand this program so more Ogoni youths can benefit from similar opportunities,” she said.
Some beneficiaries expressed excitement about the life-changing experience. Godsgift Stella, one of the female participants, said the training gave her the confidence to work in a male-dominated field.
“Before this program, I had no knowledge of electrical systems. Today, I can install and maintain solar panels confidently. This experience has shown that women can excel anywhere,” she said.
Another participant noted that the program had renewed hope among unemployed youths by providing them with the technical and entrepreneurial skills needed to start meaningful careers.
The solar installation and maintenance training, which ran from August 6 to October 18, 2025, is part of Lekeh Development Foundation’s ongoing efforts to drive a just transition to renewable energy and support communities affected by decades of environmental pollution in the Niger Delta.
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