The Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers (NISafetyE), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Engr. Mary Umoh, has praised the ongoing ARISE Safety Training Programme initiated by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Projects, Prof. Akaniyene Ekong.
Engr. Umoh gave the commendation on the third day of the training programme, describing it as timely, impactful, and a model worthy of replication. The programme is being run in partnership with the Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers and targets engineers and construction professionals across the state.
The training initiative is part of Governor Umo Eno’s broader ARISE agenda, which aims to promote skills development, youth empowerment, and improved standards in safety practices across the state.
Engr. Umoh stated that the programme would equip youths with relevant safety skills, enhance their professional value, and contribute to safer work environments. She highlighted the importance of such interventions in strengthening safety culture across industries, construction sites, and workplaces.
She commended Prof. Ekong for making the programme accessible to young professionals and encouraged other stakeholders to support similar initiatives aimed at empowering youth and improving workforce competence.
The NISafetyE chairman also applauded Governor Eno’s administration for its commitment to changing the safety narrative in Akwa Ibom State. She emphasized that the government’s collaboration with professional safety institutions is expected to reduce the recurrence of past safety failures.
Engr. Umoh further noted that the presence of capable safety leadership within the state government, including Prof. Ekong and the Senior Special Assistant on Health, Safety and Environment, Mrs. Jayne Ufot, signals a stronger drive towards safety reform and institutionalized safety standards.
Addressing the trainees, Engr. Umoh urged them to use the training as an opportunity to increase their professional competence, stressing that continuous knowledge acquisition is essential for relevance in the safety and engineering fields.
She encouraged participants to ask questions and seek clarification during the training to ensure they leave the programme better equipped to implement safety standards in their workplaces.
Engr. Umoh also informed the trainees that holders of HSE Levels 1, 2, and 3 certifications are eligible for membership in the Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers. She assured them of mentorship and institutional support for professional growth and career development.
The ARISE Safety Training Programme continues to attract significant participation, reinforcing the state government’s focus on strengthening safety practices and building a skilled workforce capable of driving safer workplaces across Akwa Ibom State.
