The West Africa Container Terminal–APM Terminals Nigeria has reinforced its commitment to sustainable community development and inclusive economic growth across its host communities in Rivers state.
The terminal operator recently graduated an additional 600 beneficiaries from the fourth and fifth cohorts of its WACTpreneur programme, which brought together community leaders from their host communities, Onne and Ogu, implementation partners, and WACT representatives to celebrate the successful completion of six months of intensive entrepreneurship training and mentorship.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director, WACT, Jeethu Jose, who was represented by the company’s Senior People Business Partner, Chinelo Obienyem, said the programme is designed to strengthen small businesses by providing hands-on training in merchandising, customer relations, record keeping, supply chain management, credit sales, sources of finance, integrity in business and cash flow management among other core business areas.
He congratulated the graduates for their dedication and perseverance and further encouraged them to apply the knowledge gained to grow their enterprises and contribute to local economic development.
Jose said through the programme, participants have been equipped with practical skills to build sustainable businesses that can positively impact their families and communities,” he said.
“Today, we are celebrating determination, resilience and the entrepreneurial spirit within our host communities. We are confident that the skills acquired through this programme will enable our graduates to create jobs, expand their businesses, and serve as role models for entrepreneurship within their communities,” he stated.
Also affirming the commitment to the WACTpreneur programme, the principal Partner/Chief Executive Officer, Dufy Global Enterprise, Victor Akubor, said the company’s collaboration with WACT reflects a shared commitment to empoweringentrepreneurs with practical knowledge that drives long-term success.
“We are proud of the progress made by the beneficiaries and look forward to seeing their businesses thrive,” he said.
Community leaders from Onne and Ogu commended WACT for its sustained investment in people-focused development initiatives.
According to the Onne Community Development Committee Chairman, Godfrey Maate, WACT has consistently demonstrated a genuine commitment to the community, not only through infrastructure projects but by empowering the people with skills that promote self-reliance and economic growth.
