INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY YENAGOA
creativity, self-reliance, service
The International Institute of Tourism and Hospitality (IITH), Yenagoa, on Thursday, 25 June 2026, hosted the official opening ceremony of a two-month Skills Acquisition Programme organised by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) in collaboration with Benit Integrated Services Limited.
The programme, which commenced at the Institute's auditorium, attracted over 100 participants drawn from Sagbama and Ekeremor Local Government Areas of Bayelsa State. It is designed to equip young people with practical, industry-relevant skills that will enhance their employability, entrepreneurial capacity, and contribution to Nigeria's growing digital economy.
Participants will receive intensive training in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Smart Automation, Interior Decoration, Digital Economy, and Creative Enterprise Skills. The training sessions will run from Monday to Friday throughout the two-month period, with beneficiaries receiving daily lunch and training stipends.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, the Coordinator of Benit Integrated Services Limited, Mrs. Gloria Itoku, encouraged participants to approach the programme with dedication and seriousness. She stressed the importance of acquiring practical skills as a pathway to self-reliance rather than depending solely on government employment opportunities.
Also addressing the participants, Chief Perez Pereotu, former Chairman of Sagbama Local Government Area and representative of the Sagbama/Ekeremor constituency, described the initiative as a strategic investment in youth empowerment. He urged participants to demonstrate discipline, punctuality, and commitment throughout the programme while serving as worthy ambassadors of their communities.
In his welcome address, the Rector of the International Institute of Tourism and Hospitality, Prof. Apuega Arikawei, commended the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board and Benit Integrated Services Limited for partnering to provide meaningful opportunities for young people in Bayelsa State.
The Rector observed that Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies are rapidly transforming industries across the world, making practical digital skills increasingly valuable alongside traditional academic qualifications.
Prof. Arikawei reaffirmed the Institute's commitment to capacity building, innovation, and human capital development in line with the Federal Government's Renewed Hope Agenda and the developmental vision of the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri. He further advised participants to make productive use of the start-up packs they would receive upon completion of the programme, cautioning them against selling the equipment, which is intended to serve as a foundation for sustainable careers and entrepreneurship.
The Skills Acquisition Programme reflects the shared commitment of NCDMB, Benit Integrated Services Limited, and the International Institute of Tourism and Hospitality to empowering youths with future-ready competencies that will promote innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development within Bayelsa State and beyond.
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