The Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe has pointed that the Board is intensifying efforts to embed Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards across its operations, aiming to bolster sustainability and enhance local content in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Speaking at the International Conference on Hydrocarbon Science and Technology in Abuja on Thursday, Ogbe emphasized the Board’s commitment to aligning with global ESG benchmarks.
“ESG principles are critical in directing global investments, and Nigeria is keeping pace,” Ajimijaye stated. “NCDMB is empowering local operators to compete on the international stage while adhering to world-class standards. We are on track to secure ISO certification, positioning our ecosystem among the best globally.” he noted.
Represented by the General Manager, Monitoring and Evaluation, NCDMB Mr. Silas Ajimijaye highlighted NCDMB’s focus on capacity building through strategic partnerships, notably with the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI). The Board leverages its Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Joint Qualification System (NOGICJQS) portal to identify industry stakeholders and facilitate targeted training programmes, fostering skill development and operational excellence.
He also underscored NCDMB’s support for the proposed African Energy Bank, noting that access to the Nigerian Content Development Fund is contingent on compliance with ESG and robust governance standards. Ajimijaye stressed the importance of utilizing Nigeria’s diverse energy resources, including petroleum, to address the nation’s energy poverty while maintaining a low emissions profile.
At the same conference, Sophia Innih-Mbakwe, Executive Vice President of Business Services at NNPC Limited, called for equitable international collaboration amid growing pressures from the global energy transition. She advocated for a deliberate strategy to deepen local content, drawing inspiration from Norway’s approach.
“Norway implemented a policy where expatriates trained six to ten locals, who eventually assumed those roles,” she explained. “NCDMB’s adoption of a similar model is commendable, and we must further embrace modern technologies to enhance efficiency and global competitiveness.”
Innih-Mbakwe emphasized that Nigeria’s energy sector must prioritize innovation and local expertise to navigate the evolving global landscape effectively.
Onajero Gloria, NCDMB’s Manager of Human Resources, highlighted the increasing role of women in the industry.
“My career progression has been anchored on integrity and dedication,” she said. “NCDMB is committed to fostering women’s professional growth, and I encourage women to build their skills to capitalize on emerging opportunities in this dynamic sector.”
The conference underscored NCDMB’s pivotal role in driving sustainable and inclusive development in Nigeria’s energy industry, aligning local capabilities with global standards while promoting diversity and innovation.
