Tompolo’s Tantita unveils 250-seater JAMB CBT centre

It was a moment of jubilation in the riverine communities of Ogulagha Kingdom in the Niger Delta as Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited  formally inaugurated the refurbished and upgraded Sologha Ekpemukpolo JAMB Computer-Based Test  Centre on Monday.

Stakeholders hailed the initiative as a major enhancement to educational infrastructure in Delta State’s riverine communities.

The project, part of TSSNL’s corporate social responsibility, includes the provision of 250 brand-new HP laptops, Starlink internet services, and a solar inverter system to ensure uninterrupted power supply.

Originally donated by Shell Petroleum Development Company in 2012 as an ICT hub, the centre has now been fully transformed into a JAMB-accredited CBT facility.

Speaking at the event, Victor Isereke, who has been associated with the facility since its inception, detailed the upgrades.

“Tantita has renovated the entire facility, painted it, and replaced all the computer systems with 250 brand-new computers. They also built toilet facilities, provided Starlink internet services, and installed a solar inverter system to reduce dependence on diesel,” he said.

The process of converting the centre into a JAMB-accredited CBT facility began in 2021, spearheaded by  the lawmaker representing Burutu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Julius Pondi.

Recognising the challenges faced by students from riverine areas—who previously had to travel long distances to hinterlands for examinations—Pondi pushed for a local JAMB centre.

Despite initial resistance due to its location, his efforts eventually led to its approval and subsequent upgrades to meet JAMB’s standards.

Expressing gratitude to TSSNL,  Pondi, represented by his Senior Legislative Aide, Tonkiri Apu, lauded the initiative.

“Upgrading the Ogulagha JAMB Centre to an international standard makes education more accessible to our people in rural areas. Our students no longer need to cross the high sea to write JAMB; now, they can do it at their doorstep,” he said.

Ogulagha Community Chairman, Mr. Daniel Okebor, also expressed his appreciation and pledged to safeguard the facility.

“We will do everything within our power to preserve it. Security measures have been put in place to ensure that nobody vandalizes this place,” Okebor assured.

Local students shared their excitement over the development.