Chief Kestin Pondi, the Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd. (TSSNL), has emphasized that 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, while addressing a crowd of community leaders, including youth representatives and stakeholders, said that the Secretariat was not just a corporate gesture.

According to him, the Secretariat is a deeply personal mission 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, fully equipped with modern facilities is named after late Chief Fred Obe, 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, meant to inspire a new generation to 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 in terms of courage, selflessness and vision.

"May his name on these walls remind every young person who walks through its doors 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 also involved in peace- building, youth empowerment and offering 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, one where 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 represent the beginning of a brighter, more unified future for Isoko youth and for the Niger Delta," he concluded.

Also speaking, the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the State Commissioner for Youth and Development, Mr. Henry 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 said that the project represented his administration’s unwavering commitment to uplifting the youth and preparing them for a brighter and more prosperous future.

He emphasized that the Secretariat would play a vital role in the community, offering programs such as: entrepreneurship training, digital skills workshops, 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 and maintain it with pride, assuring the state government's commitment to building a Delta State that will be of pride to the future generation.

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

In his remark, the President of Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) Worldwide, Comrade Eniwake Orogun, said the secretariat is more than just a building.

"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 under late Chief Obe, whose bold leadership led to infrastructural improvements in neglected communities and a louder voice for Isoko youths in regional matters.

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

"This building is named after him not just for history’s sake, but to inspire the next generation of leaders 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 and continued through successive administrations, culminating in its completion under my current leadership, who assumed office in December 2023.

"This project is made possible through selfless efforts and the support of individuals who believe in the potential of the youth.

"A notable benefactor was High Chief Kestin Pondi, the Managing Director of Tantita who is 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 was not born out of ethnic affiliation, but 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, distribution of 100 sewing machines and accessories valued at N45 million, and provision of 25 laptops for tech-inclined youths," he said.

Orogun, however, appealed for financial support from well-meaning individuals, corporate organizations, and government agencies 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.