The issue of energy poverty, particularly for remote communities in the riverine areas of the Niger Delta region that are unconnected to the national grid of power infrastructure in Nigeria, might, to a large extent, be a thing of the past as the Soso Pondi Foundation, established by Soso Pondi, is set to embark on its solar power training initiative for 50 beneficiaries of the scheme.

This is as the founder of the foundation met with the 50 beneficiaries that were selected from the more than 400 applicants at the defunct Egbema Gbaramatu Communities Development Foundation (EGCDF) office in Effurun, Delta State, on Saturday, March 1, 2025.

While reiterating the importance of the initiative, Pondi, who delivered a welcome address, stated, "Ladies and gentlemen, today, as you stand on the brink of an exciting journey with the Soso Pondi Foundation, I want to take a moment to recognize the incredible opportunity that lies before you. You are not just trainees, you are pioneers in the movement that will transform our communities and our planet.

"This scheme is more than just an opportunity, it's a chance to contribute to a sustainable future, harness the power of the sun, and bring energy independence to those who need it most. The confidence that the Soso Pondi Foundation has placed in you is a testament to your potential. We believe in your ability to learn, grow, and make a difference," he added.

Pondi urged the beneficiaries to be passionate as they become change agent and to impact lives, a task that is selfless and one that requires a sense of responsibility.

"Therefore, as you embark on this training, I urge you to embrace every moment, dive into the lessons, ask questions, and share your ideas. Remember, you are not just learning a skill, you are becoming ambassadors of change. Your passion and dedication will light the way for others, inspiring them to join this vital cause.

"You have the power to impact lives, to uplift communities, and to drive the change we desperately need. So, relish the responsibility that comes with this opportunity. Wear the badge of the Soso Pondi Foundation with pride, knowing that you are part of something much larger than yourselves.

"Together, let us shine brightly as we harness the sun's energy and illuminate the path to a sustainable future. You are the change makers, the innovators, and the leaders of tomorrow. Let's make every moment count," he stressed.

The beneficiaries, who were from various states in the Niger Delta region and beyond, were excited at the development and thanked the founder of the Soso Foundation for the opportunity they have been presented with and promised to not disappoint the sponsor the initiative.

Also speaking after the brief ceremony, the Chairman of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Gbaramatu Clan, Comr. Zikurebai Oyinkuro Wazo, who is a coordinator of the scheme noted that the programme offer self-employment and other job opportunities as well as create room for the youths to be in tune with the innovative trend around the world.

"It's for them to utilise this opportunity, and harness power of the sun, because gradually the world is going into renewal energy. They should take advantage of this opportunity, so that at the end of this training, they can have something doing for themselves, and also, when they have something doing for themselves, it also means that they can feed their family and also employ other teeming youths in their community and their environment," he added.

According to the coordinator, the trainers that will guide the beneficiaries as they embark on their transformative journey are Asteven Energy Institute and C-TOP Reliance Company, solar energy experts.

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