WACT–APM Terminals Nigeria has marked a major milestone in its community development efforts by graduating 600 beneficiaries from the fourth and fifth cohorts of its WACTpreneur programme. This initiative underscores the terminal operator’s dedication to fostering self-reliance and inclusive economic growth within its host communities of Onne and Ogu in Rivers State.
The graduation follows six months of intensive entrepreneurship training and mentorship designed to turn local talent into sustainable business owners.
Cultivating the Entrepreneurial Spirit
The WACTpreneur programme is more than just a training course; it is a strategic investment in human capital. During the ceremony, representatives from WACT and community leaders highlighted the transformative nature of the initiative:
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Skill Acquisition: Participants were equipped with practical business management skills, financial literacy, and marketing strategies.
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Job Creation: Graduates are expected to not only grow their own enterprises but also create employment opportunities for others in the region.
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Community Resilience: By focusing on entrepreneurship, WACT aims to build a more resilient local economy that is less dependent on direct terminal employment.
Chinelo Obienyem, WACT Senior People Business Partner, emphasized that the graduates now serve as role models for future entrepreneurs, proving that determination and the right training can lead to sustainable livelihoods.
Strengthening Community Ties
The Onne Community Development Committee (CDC) hailed the programme as “epoch-making.” Chairman Godfrey Maate noted that while infrastructure projects are vital, empowering individuals with the skills to be self-sufficient provides a more lasting impact on the community’s future.
Looking Ahead: The 2026 Roadmap
WACT’s commitment to its host communities extends beyond this single graduation. The organisation has outlined a clear strategy for continued engagement through 2026:
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Cohort 6 Launch: Applications and preparations for the next round of WACTpreneur are set for February 2026.
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Education: Continuation of the company’s dedicated scholarship scheme for local students.
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Health & Infrastructure: Maintenance of solar energy systems at Primary Health Care Centres to ensure 24/7 power for essential services.
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Strategic Planning: Development of a comprehensive community project master plan to ensure all future investments align with the actual needs of Onne and Ogu.
By integrating mentorship with practical support, WACT continues to set a benchmark for corporate social responsibility in Nigeria’s maritime and logistics sector.
