NCDMB, SNEPCo, LADOL launch 12-month training programme to build oil, gas supply chain talent

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), in collaboration with Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo) and Lagos Deep Offshore Logistics (LADOL), has launched a 12-month Human Capacity Development (HCD) programme designed to equip young Nigerians with specialized skills required for supply base operations in the oil and gas industry.

The initiative, which commenced on Tuesday at the LADOL Free Zone in Apapa, Lagos, will provide intensive training for 12 selected beneficiaries through a blend of classroom instruction and practical industry exposure. The programme focuses on critical areas that support logistics, procurement, trade facilitation, and supply chain management within the energy sector.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, represented by the General Manager, Human Capacity Development, Ms. Alexis Emelle, described the programme as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future workforce and the long-term sustainability of the country’s energy industry.

According to Emelle, the initiative goes beyond conventional training by creating opportunities for young Nigerians to acquire industry-relevant competencies and position themselves for successful careers in highly specialized segments of the oil and gas value chain.

She noted that the programme aligns with NCDMB’s mandate of developing local capacity and ensuring that Nigerians are adequately prepared to meet the evolving demands of the industry.

“This initiative is more than a training programme; it is an investment in people and in the future of Nigeria’s energy sector. It reflects our commitment to building a workforce that is skilled, competitive, and capable of driving growth across the industry,” she said.

She encouraged participants to demonstrate discipline, dedication, and a strong commitment to learning throughout the training period, adding that technical competence must be complemented by professionalism, adaptability, and integrity.

“The industry requires individuals who are dependable, adaptable, and solution-oriented. Every assignment, lesson, and practical exposure should be viewed as an opportunity to develop both competence and character,” she added.

Representing SNEPCo at the event, the company’s Nigerian Content Manager, Mr. Obiajulu Onochie, highlighted the importance of human capital development as a critical pillar of operational excellence and sustainable growth within the energy industry.

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Onochie commended NCDMB for its consistent efforts in promoting local content and developing indigenous talent, describing the Board as one of the most professional institutions championing capacity development in Nigeria.

He noted that the success of Nigeria’s local content agenda is closely linked to the quality of investments made in developing skilled professionals capable of supporting industry operations.

According to him, SNEPCo remains committed to nurturing Nigerian talent and has implemented several capacity-building programmes in 2026 covering areas such as cybersecurity, blockchain architecture, NEBOSH certification, and subsea engineering disciplines.

“Investing in people remains one of the most important steps toward building a sustainable and globally competitive energy industry. We are passionate about developing Nigerian talent and creating opportunities for young professionals to thrive,” Onochie said.

In her remarks, a representative of LADOL underscored the transformative role of the Nigerian Content policy in strengthening indigenous participation in the oil and gas sector.

The representative stated that the growth and success of LADOL are closely tied to the implementation of local content initiatives, noting that the company would not have achieved its current scale without the support of Nigeria’s local content framework.

She reaffirmed LADOL’s commitment to partnering with industry stakeholders to strengthen local capacity and provide young Nigerians with access to meaningful career opportunities.

The 12 beneficiaries selected for the programme emerged through a rigorous two-stage selection process designed to identify promising young professionals with the potential to contribute to the sector.

Over the next year, participants will receive specialized training aimed at enhancing their understanding of supply base operations while developing practical skills that support logistics management, procurement processes, warehousing, trade facilitation, and broader supply chain functions within the oil and gas industry.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Olaniye Sodiq expressed gratitude to NCDMB, SNEPCo, LADOL, and the training partners for investing in their professional development.

He assured stakeholders that the trainees were eager to maximize the opportunity and apply the knowledge gained to support industry operations upon completion of the programme.

“We are grateful for this opportunity and committed to making the most of it. We look forward to contributing meaningfully to LADOL and the wider oil and gas industry after completing the programme,” he said.

Industry observers say the initiative reflects the growing emphasis on building indigenous technical and managerial expertise as Nigeria seeks to deepen local participation in the oil and gas sector.

The Human Capacity Development programme is expected to further strengthen Nigeria’s local content drive by aligning workforce development with industry needs and creating pathways for young Nigerians to access high-value employment opportunities across the energy value chain.