Home Blog Page 273

331 Graduates Receive Certificates After NLNG Train 7 HCD Training

A total of 331 young graduates from different academic backgrounds received certificates and awards on Thursday after completing a 12-month Human Capital Development Basic Training Programme on the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited Train 7 Project. The programme, which took place on a live LNG Plant at Finima, Bonny Island, focused on key technical and operational areas such as Lifting and Working at Heights, Marine and Offshore Services, Quality Management Systems, Facility Management and Maintenance, Information and Communication Technology, Engineering, Welding and Fabrication, and Non-Destructive Testing.

In his keynote address, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, praised the NLNG and its partner companies for what he described as their unwavering commitment to Nigerian Content Development. He said the organisations had given the outgoing trainees opportunities that could shape their future. He explained that the HCD component of the Train 7 Project is “a testament to the successful implementation of the Board’s Human Capital Development Guidelines, 2020,” which aim to ensure that major oil and gas projects contribute meaningfully to the training and empowerment of Nigerians.

He noted that the Train 7 Project, regarded as one of the largest gas infrastructure developments in Africa, has created jobs and offered a platform for grooming young Nigerians with advanced technical and managerial skills. He added that the investments of the NLNG have strengthened local capacity and helped deepen in-country value retention. Represented by the General Manager of Human Capital Development, Mr. Esueme Dan Kikile, Esq, Engr. Ogbe encouraged the trainees to make the most of the opportunity they had been given. He urged them to keep improving themselves and stay open to innovations that could influence the future of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

In a welcome address, the General Manager of External Relations and Sustainable Development at NLNG, Dr. Sophia Horsfall, said the company believes strongly in investing in people and equipping them with practical skills and world-class exposure. According to her, this approach is not just a corporate duty but a catalyst for driving economic growth and a sustainable future. She explained that the Basic HCD Training Programme is a statutory requirement under the NOGIC Act, 2010, and forms part of the Nigerian Content Plan for the NLNG Train 7 Project.

Dr. Horsfall also commended the NCDMB for facilitating “the training of literally thousands of Nigerians,” which has enabled participants to gain internationally recognised certifications. She advised the outgoing trainees to make good use of the skills and knowledge acquired during the programme.

A representative of the NLNG Train 7 Project, Engr. Joshua Onemeje, thanked the Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Engr. Ogbe, for the support given to the project. He also expressed gratitude to the Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria facilitators for what he called “a fantastic work done.”

During the vote of thanks, the Nigerian Content Manager of NLNG, Engr. Dagogo Buowari, said HCD “facilitates societal transformation and building a sustainable development.” He described the partnership between the NCDMB and the NLNG as “the gold standard for regulator-operator relationship.” Thirty outstanding trainees were honoured with awards of excellence and cash gifts.

Advertisement

NCDMB plans training placements for students in oil and gas companies

0

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board on Wednesday held an interactive session with student union leaders from various tertiary institutions in Bayelsa State, focusing on the Board’s plans to improve practical exposure for students, especially through industrial training opportunities with service companies in the oil and gas industry. The event took place at the Nigerian Content Tower in Yenagoa, where officials explained ongoing initiatives and the roles expected of young people in supporting development in the state.

Student Union Government representatives were drawn from Bayelsa Medical University, Federal University Otuoke, National Open University Yenagoa Centre, University of Africa Toru-Orua, Bayelsa State College of Health Sciences, Federal Polytechnic Ekowe, Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro College of Education Sagbama, and the International Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Yenagoa, among others.

Speaking on the theme “The Role of the Student Community in the Sustainable Development of Bayelsa State,” the General Manager, Human Capital Development of the NCDMB, Esueme Dan Kikile Esq., said knowledge plays a critical role in the growth of individuals, especially students and young persons who make up a large part of the society. He encouraged the students to draw inspiration from well-known youth leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Dr. Martin Luther King Jnr., Major Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro, and Malala Yousafzai, noting how their impact helped shape their communities. According to him, students should embrace qualities like sacrifice, resilience, determination, and focus.

He stated, “Each and everyone of you should be that instrument to change our state and our country for the better,” adding that the Board has several programmes that prepare young people for opportunities in the oil and gas industry and other parts of national life. He said, “We want to encourage youths to seek knowledge, be creative, be innovative.”

Mr. Kikile highlighted the Nigerian Engineering Olympiad, a competition recently launched by the Board in partnership with Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, First E&P, and the Nigerian Society of Engineers. The programme targets final-year undergraduate engineering students and postgraduate students across the country.

He urged students to participate, explaining that the Olympiad helps build problem-solving skills, technical abilities, innovation, and business awareness. The eight-month-long programme has an application deadline of 11 January 2026. He noted that the prize for the eventual winner is similar to what is offered in one of the biggest Reality TV Shows in Nigeria.

He also announced that the NCDMB is putting together a plan that will allow students in tertiary institutions to undergo industrial training with service companies in the oil and gas industry. He said this approach would give them practical exposure and real work experience before graduation. He explained that the Board is also running a three-year internship for young graduates in partnership with Renaissance Africa Energy Limited, formerly Shell Petroleum Development Company.

The General Manager further mentioned the Oil and Gas Field Readiness Training Programme, which aims to train 10,000 young graduates in the top ten skill areas in the sector. He said the initiative is part of the Board’s efforts to build a skilled workforce ahead of major projects that recently received Final Investment Decisions.

Also speaking at the session, the General Manager of Corporate Communications, Dr. Obinna Ezeobi, gave an overview of the NCDMB’s creation and explained how the Board came into existence after the signing of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act in 2010. He said the Act was necessary because the industry had suffered from massive capital flight and limited job opportunities for Nigerians. He explained the Board’s mandate as “to develop the capacity of the local supply chain for effective and efficient service delivery to the oil and gas industry, without compromising standards.”

According to him, “The whole idea of local content is about disruption, changing how things were being done in the oil and gas industry,” stressing that the Board’s vision is “to be the catalyst for the industrialization of the Nigerian oil and gas industry and its linkage sectors.”

Dr. Ezeobi noted that it is important for students in an oil-producing state to understand basic industry operations and local content, as it affects them, their communities, and potential investments coming into the state.

He stated that the NCDMB has been deliberate in its projects in Bayelsa State. One of the most remarkable is the 17-storey Nigerian Content Tower, which remains the tallest building in the South-South and South-East regions. He said the project created numerous jobs for residents during construction and now attracts thousands of industry stakeholders from within and outside the country.

He also noted the ongoing construction of the NCDMB Conference Hotel located beside the Tower. He described it as the first five-star hotel in the state, currently at 80 percent completion, and expected to boost tourism and hospitality activities in the state capital.

Dr. Ezeobi added that the Board has played a major role in the Oloibiri Oil and Gas Museum and Research Centre project, being handled by Julius Berger Plc. He said the project is supported by NNPCL, PTDF, and the Bayelsa State Government, and is expected to be completed within 30 months.

He also referred to the Nigerian Oil and Gas Park Scheme located in Emeyal, Ogbia Local Government Area, explaining that it is designed to support local manufacturing. In addition, he noted that the 10-megawatt thermal power plant built by the Board in Elebele is already supplying electricity to the Nigerian Content Tower and the Bayelsa Government House.

He mentioned that preparations for the Brass Shipyard are progressing steadily. The facility is expected to handle drydocking and fittings for tankers, supported by activities from the NLNG Train-7 Project in Bonny Island.

Dr. Ezeobi urged youths and host communities to use dialogue whenever issues arise with companies and to avoid actions that could discourage investors. During the session, students asked questions about registering on the NOGIC Joint Qualification System, opportunities for non-engineering graduates in the oil and gas sector, the internal structure of the NCDMB, and the poor road leading to the Oloibiri Museum site.

NCDMB Says Creativity Drives Local Content Growth in Oil and Gas Industry

0

The General Manager of the Corporate Communications Division of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB, Dr. Obinna Ezeobi, has identified creativity and innovation as major driving forces in the implementation of local content policy in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. He made this known while addressing a capacity audience at the Bayelsa Creatives Converge 2.0 held at the D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall, Ovom, Yenagoa. He explained that changing the way things were done in the sector required creativity and pragmatism, especially after the enactment of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development, NOGICD, Act of 2010.

According to him, the NOGICD Act was designed to reverse decades of near-total dominance of the oil and gas industry by foreign business interests and expertise. He said there was a time when in-country value retention was less than five per cent, and the sector had very little positive impact on other areas of the national economy. Dr. Obinna noted that 15 years after the law came into effect, local content has grown to 56 per cent, which he described as a significant transformation.

He explained that reinventing the sector to maximise Nigerian participation and encourage the use of Nigerian assets had to be pursued with creativity so that investor confidence would be maintained. He said it was important to ensure that operational standards were not compromised in any way that would affect the growth and development of the industry.

Dr. Obinna highlighted that creativity guides the NCDMB’s Human Capital Development programme as the Board regularly identifies skill gaps and the resources needed to address them. He explained that the Board carries out diverse trainings in Nigeria and abroad to improve the quality of the local workforce. He added that the latest initiative under this programme is the Field Readiness Training Programme, under which the Board will train 10,000 young Nigerian graduates in the top-10 high-demand skills in the oil and gas sector, especially in preparation for upcoming major projects.

The CCD boss urged graduates who are 35 years and below and hold qualifications in engineering, geology, and the sciences to visit the Board’s Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Content, NOGIC, Job Qualification System, JQS, portal to apply for the opportunity.

He also stated that creativity supports the Board’s efforts to build capacities among indigenous companies through targeted interventions. These include the US$400 million Nigerian Content Intervention Fund, NCIF, equity participation, and the creation of Project 100 Companies. He noted that through Project 100, the Board, working with the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, has supported the growth of upstart companies, some of which have now become major players in the industry.

He further explained that innovation guides the Board’s approach in monitoring local content compliance by operators in the oil and gas sector. According to him, the Board acts as a business enabler and works to provide the best conditions for successful operations in the industry. Dr. Obinna also stated that the NCDMB has a corporate policy that supports creative activities, which is seen through its sponsorship of National Undergraduate Essay Competitions, book reading programmes, and similar initiatives.

Also speaking at the event, the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, commended the convener of the Bayelsa Creatives Converge, Mr. Emma Eco, for providing a platform that encourages productive interactions. He said such gatherings are useful for inspiring young people. Addressing the youths directly, he said, “Your environment shouldn’t limit you… You can achieve success wherever you are.”

Dr. Ogbuku drew attention to recent trends in the technology world and explained how they could benefit young people who aim for genuine success. He praised O.T. Derrick, an ICT expert from Niger Delta University, for offering to train 500 youths in Artificial Intelligence, AI. He pledged financial support for the training and announced that another 500 participants would be added to the programme.

Other speakers at the event included Mr. Asu Ekiye, a gospel singer, Ms. Sarian Martin, a Nollywood actress, and two contemporary artistes, J. Martin and Timi Dakolo.

Earlier in his remarks, the convener, Mr. Emma Eco, said he realised the important role that creatives play as problem solvers and decided to bring them together so they could “marry ideas…and explore areas of possible collaboration.” The Bayelsa Creatives Converge is dedicated to supporting the growth of the creative industry by providing a space for idea exchange, intellectual discussions, and engagement with the wider society.

AFAN Begins Dry Season Sorghum Programme for 300 Kaduna Farmers

0

The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Kaduna State chapter, has announced a new dry season sorghum farming programme designed to strengthen food security and improve the livelihoods of farmers across the state. The initiative is being implemented in partnership with major agricultural stakeholders and will begin with a pilot phase.

Speaking to journalists in Zaria on Sunday, Nuhu Aminu, chairman AFAN, Kaduna chapter, said the pilot phase would support 300 farmers. He explained that each beneficiary would receive high-yielding sorghum varieties that are suitable for dry season cultivation. He added that the number of participants is expected to increase in the coming years as the programme expands across the state.

In a related update, Mr Aminu said AFAN was working with the Wheat Farmers Association of Nigeria to assist farmers benefiting from the federal government’s 2025 dry season farming intervention. He explained that the intervention provides a full input package for cultivating one hectare of farmland, while farmers are required to pay only 50 per cent of the cost. According to him, the remaining 50 per cent is subsidised by the federal government to reduce the financial burden on smallholder farmers.

“The beneficiaries, who are mostly peasant farmers, will have the remaining 50 per cent subsidised by the federal government,” he said.

Mr Aminu also expressed concern over reports that some individuals were illegally collecting N9,000 from farmers under the false claim of enrollment for the programme. He stressed that beneficiaries are not required to pay any fee to access the intervention and warned that AFAN would take necessary punitive action against anyone involved in the extortion.

FAAN denies asking employees to alter recruitment requirements

0

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has clarified that no employee is ever compelled to alter or suppress their qualifications during any stage of its recruitment process. The Authority made this clear while addressing concerns raised in recent discussions about staff placement and career progression.

FAAN stated that all engagement procedures are based strictly on the advertised positions, their requirements at the time, and the voluntary submissions of applicants. It stressed that its recruitment system is designed to reflect fairness, merit, and transparency, and that it does not request or enforce any modification of qualifications from applicants or staff.

In its statement, FAAN explained that its human resource and administrative procedures follow established statutory standards that guide recruitment, placement, and career growth within the organisation.

According to the Authority, these standards are structured to promote equity, competence, and efficiency across all departments. FAAN added that it maintains a strong culture of due process and will not deviate from frameworks that ensure accountability and professionalism at every stage of staff management.

The Authority noted that the Managing Director recently approved an internal review to look into certain employment-related concerns that came to the attention of management. FAAN said this review aims to strengthen clarity, ensure the uniform application of policies, and reinforce trust in the systems that support staff progression. It added that the process will help identify gaps and improve structures where necessary to further protect the integrity of its operations.

FAAN also reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on workplace misconduct, including harassment, intimidation, or abuse of office. The Authority explained that its internal reporting and redress mechanisms remain active, confidential, and strictly enforced to safeguard the dignity and well-being of all staff. It added that any behaviour that conflicts with the values of the organisation is thoroughly investigated and addressed through established disciplinary channels.

The Authority restated its commitment to building a work environment that rewards integrity, respects hierarchy, supports career development, and upholds professionalism across critical units such as Aviation Security AVSEC, Aviation Rescue and Firefighting Services ARFFS, and other key departments.

FAAN appreciated the dedication of its staff and encouraged continuous cooperation, dialogue, and adherence to due process as it works toward strengthening its operations nationwide.

Amotekun Announces 5th Batch Recruitment Exercise in Ondo State

The Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun Corps, has announced the start of its 5th Batch Recruitment Exercise (BR05) as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen security across the state. The Agency was officially established on the 4th of March 2020 through a law passed by the Ondo State House of Assembly, with an amendment later made on the 13th of July 2022.

According to the Agency, its main objectives include gathering and analyzing security data to support operational work, as well as investigating and prosecuting suspects involved in criminal activities. It also works closely with similar security networks in Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Lagos States to combat kidnapping, terrorism, cattle-rustling, destruction of farms, human trafficking, cultism, highway robbery, sea piracy, oil bunkering, and other offences.

The Agency stated that another key objective is to protect lives and property and ensure that residents can travel through major roads, remote areas, forests, and waterways without fear.

The new recruitment exercise follows the approval of the State Government to bring in more regular officers into the Corps. The Agency explained that this step is part of the government’s commitment to improving safety across Ondo State. Interested applicants must either be indigenes of Ondo State or Yoruba persons who have lived in the state for at least ten years. They must present evidence such as Local Government of Origin, proof of payment of development levy for at least three years, and either a National Identity Card or a valid Voter’s Card.

Applicants are also expected to have paramilitary or security experience. The Agency listed additional desirable skills, including local hunting, mechanical or automobile engineering, building and construction, electrical and electronics engineering, plumbing and fittings, welding and fabrication, painting, tailoring, driving with trade test certification, and ICT skills such as web design and graphics design.

It also stated that candidates should be spiritually endowed. The minimum age requirement is 20 years, and applicants must have recent proof of physical and mental fitness from a government hospital.

To qualify, candidates must also show proof of good character endorsed by a Notary Public and the Chairman of a Local Government Traditional Council, or a Justice of the Peace. They must have lived in Ondo State for at least ten years and in their current address for not less than three years, with confirmation from a member of their Community Development Association.

The Agency announced that interested persons who meet all requirements should visit ossnamot.com from Monday 1st December 2025 to Monday 8th December 2025 to access the application form. Completed forms with all credentials, attestations, and supporting documents are to be submitted in a sealed envelope at the Command Headquarters, Behind Reuben Fasoranti Park, Alagbaka, Akure, addressed to the Corps Commander.

Submission closes on the 8th of December 2025. The Agency confirmed that shortlisted applicants will receive SMS notifications starting from the same date. It added that enquiries can be made at the Agency’s office or by calling 08079999989. The notice was signed by Muyideen Fabunmi for the Corps Commander.

Apply for Arise Home Garden Scheme 2.0 N500,000 Grant for Farmers

The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Agriculture has announced that application is now open for the ARISE Home Farms Scheme 2.0. According to the Government, the initiative is designed to encourage Akwa Ibomites to set up farms within their households, whether small home gardens or organized farms. The Governor explained that the goal is for every citizen to “cultivate their own space and grow something meaningful.”

The Ministry said the scheme is part of the Government’s wider agricultural support system, and registration is completely free. A N500,000 grant is available for eligible farmers who successfully participate in the programme.

Applicants are required to register their farms, no matter the size, and submit a two-minute video of their garden showing a recognizable landmark.

Participants will receive visits and guidance from Agricultural Extension Officers, and outstanding individuals will be celebrated as Top Home Farmers of the Year for their role in strengthening food security in Akwa Ibom.

Every Akwa Ibomite who owns a farm where they live is eligible to register, including home farmers producing cassava, maize, yam, vegetables and more, as well as fish farmers, youth farmers and school farm managers.

Entry opens 1 December 2025 and closes 9 December 2025.

Interested applicants are to visit https://arisehomefarms.akwaibomstate.gov.ng.

NJFP 2.0 to Reschedule Missed CBT Assessments

2

The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme NJFP 2.0, through UNDP Nigeria, has confirmed that applicants who missed their scheduled assessment will get another chance to take their CBT. In a message shared by UNDP in Nigeria, the programme explained that some candidates were unable to complete the test due to technical challenges or unexpected issues.

It stated, “We understand that you were unable to take your assessment during the scheduled time, possibly due to technical challenges or unexpected circumstances.” The message added that applicants will be informed about the new date.

It also said, “Please be assured that you will receive information on when you can reschedule your CBT.” NJFP noted that it appreciates the patience of all applicants.

WaterAid Nigeria Launches EmpowerHer Project with Canadian Support

WaterAid Nigeria has launched a new initiative called EmpowerHer, a project funded by the Government of Canada to expand sexual and reproductive health services and improve gender-responsive water, sanitation and hygiene systems. The programme aims to equip adolescent girls with the information and support they need to make informed health decisions, especially in communities where access to basic services remains limited.

Speaking at the launch in Abuja, Kolawole Banwo, who represented the Country Director of WaterAid Nigeria, noted the dangers women and girls face when clean water is far from home. He said, “When water supply sources are far and women and girls have to walk long distances to fetch water, they become exposed to attack, which predisposes them to gender-based violence.”

The Country Director of WaterAid Nigeria, Evelyn Mere, explained that the project represents an important step toward improving health outcomes for women and girls. She said the organisation’s long-term vision is to ensure that every woman and girl can manage her health with dignity. According to her, “Our vision is a future where women and girls can manage their health and hygiene with dignity, free from stigma, and where access to clean water, decent toilets, and good hygiene is not a privilege but a basic right. That is the world WaterAid is working towards, and EmpowerHer takes us one step closer.” She added that the project aligns with Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy, which places strong focus on gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Representing the Minister of Women Affairs, Tonia Udodrim said Canada’s role has strengthened efforts to improve women’s lives. She stated, “Canada’s investment has contributed to strengthening health systems and enhancing women’s economic empowerment.”

The Head of Development Cooperation at the High Commission of Canada in Nigeria, Arash Tehrani, highlighted Canada’s long-standing partnership with Nigeria. He explained that Global Affairs Canada values its collaboration with government institutions, development partners and local communities. He also recognised the contributions of Nigerian women and girls, noting their resilience. According to him, their determination continues to inspire Canada’s development work in the country.

The EmpowerHer project will be deployed across selected states through community outreach, construction of gender-friendly WASH facilities and training for local health workers. Project reports show that the initiative will help adolescent girls gain knowledge and confidence, prepare health workers to offer inclusive care and strengthen government systems to ensure long-term sustainability.

A statement on the project noted, “The financial support from Global Affairs Canada has strengthened our systems, and we look forward to deepening this relationship and partnership.”

UNICEF’s commitment to advancing gender equality was also highlighted. The organisation aims to tackle the root causes of inequality by shifting norms and systems so that every girl can learn, stay safe, be healthy and thrive.

The launch ended with a call for more support from development partners, private sector actors and civil society groups. The statement added, “We appreciate the support of Global Affairs Canada in making funding available for us to intervene in this manner. We commit, as other partners have done, to continue to work with them in deep collaboration to reinforce this messaging and to ensure that women and girls have their rights realized, respected, facilitated and protected.”

Benue Trains 5,580 Youths and Approves ₦7m Seed Grants

0

Over 5,580 youths in Benue State have officially graduated from a state-wide vocational training programme designed to support young people interested in building sustainable careers. The graduation ceremony took place at the Aper Aku Stadium in Makurdi, where participants from all 23 local government areas showcased skills in areas such as painting, cosmetology, Ankara design, organic fertilizer production, makeup artistry, shoemaking, catering and other trades.

The Group Managing Director of the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC), Dr. Raymond Asemakaha-CFA, described the large number of beneficiaries as a major step toward strengthening the state’s economy. He referred to the graduating youths as a “significant emerging market,” noting that their newly acquired skills would help them build businesses that can grow over time.

At the event, he announced a ₦1 million seed grant for each of the seven graduating groups, totalling ₦7 million. He explained that the grant is meant to help kick-start their entrepreneurial journeys and give them the support needed to begin small but sustainable ventures. This announcement formed one of the key highlights of the ceremony.

Dr. Asemakaha also revealed that BIPC, in partnership with the state government, is preparing to establish a Business Fund aimed at supporting Small and Medium Enterprises, especially those led by young entrepreneurs. He said the initiative will focus on helping youths who are ready to turn their vocational skills into real businesses.

He encouraged the government to introduce policies that would make it easier for young business owners to operate and access bigger markets. According to him, Benue needs to place more value on human capital by moving away from purely theoretical learning to practical business education. He explained that such a shift is important as the state’s population continues to grow and as the demand for jobs increases.

Dr. Asemakaha added that when the trained youths begin establishing their ventures, they will not only create jobs for themselves but also become employers of labour, which can reduce insecurity by addressing issues linked to idleness. He praised Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia for supporting youth empowerment and encouraged continued investment in programmes that promote vocational and entrepreneurial growth across the state.