The organisers of the Andoni Free Skill Acquisition Programme have announced that the President General of the National Association of Plant Operators (NAPO), Harold Benstowe, will headline the upcoming graduation, induction and award ceremony for trainees in crane operation, forklift handling and welding.
The event, tagged “MOBEL SUMMIT 2026: Celebrating Skill/Building Futures”, is scheduled to hold on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 10am at Lesuka Event Centre, Odili Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
According to the organisers, the presence of the NAPO President General will serve as the central highlight of the ceremony, where he is expected to lead proceedings, inspire the graduating trainees, and formally engage with stakeholders in the plant operations and industrial training sector.
The programme, initiated by philanthropist, Dr. Luke Mobene, is a youth empowerment initiative aimed at equipping young people from Andoni Local Government Area with practical, industry-relevant skills to enhance employability, professional growth and self-reliance.
The training covered key technical areas including Crane Operation, Forklift Handling and Welding, with the crane operation segment delivered under the professional instruction of Monday Mbasi.
Mr. Mbasi is the Chief Executive Officer of Mbasi Balance Lifting, as well as Chairman of NAPO Rivers State Chapter, and a certified instructor in crane operations.
Organisers described the invitation of the NAPO President General as a major milestone for the programme, noting that his leadership role in the national body of plant operators underscores the importance of the initiative to the industry.
They further stated that his participation as the headliner of the event would not only validate the training programme but also provide strong motivation for the graduating trainees as they transition into the workforce.
The ceremony will also feature the formal induction of successful trainees into the professional space, alongside the presentation of awards and recognition to individuals and partners who contributed to the success of the initiative.
The organisers emphasized that the programme reflects a broader commitment to youth empowerment through technical and vocational education, aimed at reducing unemployment and promoting self-reliance among young people in Andoni and beyond.
They expressed confidence that the event, with the NAPO President General as the principal figure, will mark a significant turning point for the beneficiaries and further strengthen collaboration between industry leaders and grassroots skill development initiatives.
Stakeholders, community leaders, industry professionals and invited guests are expected to attend the ceremony, which organisers say will celebrate skill acquisition and the building of future careers in the industrial sector.
