CSR: Empower the youth, you secured the future – Pondi

Chief Kestin Pondi, the Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd (TSSNL), has emphasised an important point. Empowering the youth cumulates to securing the future.

Pondi declared this on Saturday at the official inauguration of the Isoko Youth House – Fred Obe Secretariat, Pondi.

He also said that real security goes beyond safeguarding infrastructure, but investing in human capacity.

The managing director addressed a crowd of community leaders. This included youth representatives and stakeholders. He said that the Secretariat was not just a corporate gesture.

The Secretariat is a deeply personal mission for him. It is rooted in belief, legacy, and the future of the Niger Delta people.

“This is more than just a building, it is a symbol of partnership, progress and purpose.

“We are handing over this house to the Isoko youth because we believe in their potential. We know that when the youth are empowered, the future is secure,” he said.

The edifice is fully equipped with modern facilities. It is named after the late Chief Fred Obe. He was a son of Isoko land whose legacy of leadership and integrity continues to resonate.

Pondi said that naming the edifice after Obe was a deliberate choice. It is meant to inspire a new generation. They should follow in the footsteps of a man who stood for justice, unity, and community development.

Reflecting on the legacies of late Obe, Pondi said that the late philanthropist represented everything the edifice should stand for. This includes courage, selflessness, and vision.

“May his name on these walls remind every young person who walks through its doors. It should inspire them that they too can lead with purpose,” he said.

The managing director emphasized that the Tantita’s role in the Niger Delta goes beyond safeguarding pipelines.

According to him, the private pipeline surveillance outfit is also involved in peace-building. It focuses on youth empowerment and offers support to lasting-based development.

He urged the Isoko youth to see the new secretariat as a rallying point for ideas, unity, and innovation.

“This is your house. Use it wisely. Guard it jealously. Let it be a place where solutions are born and leadership is nurtured.

With this handover, Tantita will continue to chart a path of transformative leadership. In this path, security is not just a task but a trust.

“A part where development is driven by belief in the potential of the people,” said.

Pondi urged the people to make the best use of the edifice.

“To whom much is given, much is expected. Let this house not just stand tall in structure, but in impact.

“Let it symbolize the start of a brighter future for Isoko youth. It should also foster unity for the Niger Delta,” he concluded.

The Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, also spoke. He was represented by the State Commissioner for Youth and Development, Mr Henry ThankGod. Mr ThankGod expressed joy at the project.

He described the edifice as more than just a structure, but a symbol of hope, opportunity, and progress.

The governor stated that the project showed his administration’s unwavering commitment to uplifting the youth. He emphasized preparing them for a brighter and more prosperous future.

He emphasized that the Secretariat would play a vital role in the community. It would offer programs such as entrepreneurship training and digital skills workshops. There would also be leadership development sessions and mentorship opportunities.

“This center will equip our youth with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving world,” he said.

The governor, however, harped on the importance of providing platforms for collaboration and innovation.

He urged the youth and the community at large to use the facility wisely. He encouraged them to maintain it with pride. He assured them of the state government’s commitment. They are dedicated to building a Delta State that will be a source of pride for the future generation.

“Let this building be a beacon of inspiration and a launchpad for greatness,” he said.

The President of Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) Worldwide is Comrade Eniwake Orogun. He remarked that the secretariat is more than just a building. It has a greater role. It serves a greater purpose.

“It is a symbol of our collective aspiration, resilience, and unity as a people,” Orogun said.

He recalled that the Isoko youth movement began in 1998. It was under the late Chief Obe’s bold leadership. His leadership led to infrastructural improvements in neglected communities. It also resulted in a louder voice for Isoko youths in regional matters.

“Chief Fred Obe galvanised our people at a time when it was dangerous to speak out.

This building is named after him. It is not just for history’s sake. The purpose is to inspire the next generation of leaders. We want them to believe that true change starts with vision and courage.

The construction of the Youth House began in 2019 during the tenure of Comrade Umuakpo Ovic. It continued through successive administrations. The project was completed under my current leadership. I assumed office in December 2023.

This project is possible because of selfless efforts. It also relies on the support of individuals who believe in the potential of the youth.

“High Chief Kestin Pondi was a notable benefactor. He is the Managing Director of Tantita and a true Niger Delta son,” he said.

Orogun commended Chief Pondi for his generosity despite not being of Isoko origin.

“High Chief Pondi’s support for this project did not originate from ethnic affiliation. It came from a deep spirit of Niger Delta brotherhood.

“This is what we must continue, to build a region where collaboration replaces competition,” Orogun said.

He announced an ambitious empowerment programme designed to uplift 175 Isoko youths and projected to cost over N68 million.

“The initiative includes N15 million in business grants. It also involves the distribution of 100 sewing machines and accessories valued at N45 million. Additionally, it provides 25 laptops for tech-inclined youths,” he said.

Orogun, however, appealed for financial support. He sought assistance from well-meaning individuals. The appeal also included corporate organisations and government agencies. This support is essential to ensure the empowerment scheme comes to reality.

In attendance were prominent political leaders, including Sen. Joel-Onowakpo, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly Hon. Emomotimi Guwor.

Others were royal and religious leaders, and members of the Isoko Development Union led by Prof. Chris Akpotu.