By Sandra
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), in collaboration with Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, has launched a 12-month training programme at Nigeria Machine Tools Limited, Osogbo, Osun State, to equip 60 young Nigerians with specialised expertise in oil and gas engineering and other critical technical skills.
According to a press release signed by Obinna Ezeobi, PhD, General Manager, Corporate Communications Division, NCDMB on Sunday, October 11th, initiative is designed to develop a new generation of industry-ready professionals and strengthen Nigeria’s technical workforce.
The programme is part of the Nigerian Content Human Capacity Development (NC HCD) Training Programme for Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited’s EPU Phase 2 Gas Development Project. It aims to equip participants with advanced technical expertise across several disciplines, including engineering design, fitter machining, conventional machine tool operations, programming, computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), electrical and mechanical maintenance, and document control.
Structured over 12 months, the programme combines six months of intensive classroom instruction with six months of supervised on-the-job training in reputable companies. Graduates are expected to earn internationally recognised certifications upon completion.
At the official launch held at Nigeria Machine Tools Limited, Osogbo, NCDMB’s Director of Capacity Building, Engr. Abayomi Bamidele, reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to bridging critical technical skills gaps in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
Represented by Mr. Tare Bufazi, Assistant Manager, Human Capacity Development, Bamidele described the initiative as a strategic intervention to address manpower shortages and prepare Nigerians for meaningful participation across the oil and gas value chain.
“The importance of this programme cannot be overstated,” he said, noting that the 60 trainees comprise 33 graduates and 27 vocational trainees who would undergo specialised training tailored to industry needs.
He emphasised that NCDMB’s mission extends beyond promoting local participation to building the technical capabilities required to sustain the sector. Human capacity development, he added, remains central to strengthening local content, creating opportunities and advancing the Federal Government’s industrialisation agenda.
Bamidele urged the participants to approach the programme with discipline and commitment, stressing that it offers more than certificates by providing practical competence and professional experience for long-term careers.
He also acknowledged the contributions of Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, Seflam SGL and Nigeria Machine Tools Limited, whose collaboration made the initiative possible.
Speaking on behalf of Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, Mr. Richard Oyiborhor, Interface and Integration Manager for the NLNG Supply Project, reiterated the company’s commitment to nurturing Nigerian talent and strengthening local capabilities.
He commended NCDMB’s leadership in advancing Nigerian content and described the partnership with Seflam SGL and Nigeria Machine Tools Limited as a vital step towards developing the nation’s industrial workforce.
Mrs. Bisola Agboluaje, Senior Manager, Business Interface at Seflam SGL, congratulated the trainees and traced the programme’s origins to 2024, when NCDMB approved the training plans.
She described the initiative as a forward-looking investment in Nigeria’s technical talent pool.
In her remarks, Nigeria Machine Tools Limited’s Chief Operating Officer, Ms. Obehi Ojeagha, welcomed the participants and praised the collaboration among the organisations.
She highlighted the institution’s 46-year legacy of supporting Nigeria’s industrial development and expressed confidence that the trainees would acquire the skills, discipline and experience needed to contribute meaningfully to the oil and gas sector.
