By Kehinde Ibrahim, Lagos
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB, has unveiled plans to commence the issuance of the Nigerian Content Trainers Registration Certificate, NCTRC, a new certification programme designed to strengthen workforce development, improve training standards, and enhance local capacity within Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
The initiative was announced during a sensitization workshop held in Lagos for members of the Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria, OGTAN, as part of the Board’s broader efforts to institutionalise quality assurance in professional training and support the sustainable development of Nigerian Content.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe represented by the General Manager of the Infrastructure and Capacity Building Directorate, Barr. Sheba Olugbenga, said that the certification programme was developed to establish a structured framework for trainer accreditation and ensure that industry professionals responsible for workforce development possess the required competencies and qualifications.
According to him, the quality of human capital available to the oil and gas industry is directly dependent on the expertise and effectiveness of trainers entrusted with developing technical and professional skills. He noted that strengthening the capacity of trainers is essential to achieving long-term growth and competitiveness in the sector.
Ogbe explained that rapid technological advancements, changing operational requirements, and the increasing adoption of innovative solutions across the oil and gas value chain made continuous learning and professional development more important than ever.
He stated that the evolving nature of the industry required a standardised approach to training and capacity development to ensure that Nigerian professionals remain competitive and capable of meeting both local and international industry standards.
The Executive Secretary emphasised that the NCTRC initiative is expected to improve the overall quality of training delivered within the industry by providing a recognised certification process for trainers operating in various technical and non-technical disciplines. The programme is also expected to create a pool of certified professionals who can effectively contribute to workforce development and knowledge transfer within the sector.
During an interactive session with participants, the Director of Capacity Building at NCDMB, Engr. Abayomi Bamidele cautioned prospective applicants against dealing with individuals or organisations claiming they could facilitate or fast-track the certification process.
He stressed that the registration process is completely free and urged interested trainers to utilise only approved application channels provided by the Board. According to him, NCDMB is committed to ensuring transparency and fairness throughout the certification process and will not tolerate any form of exploitation or fraudulent practices.
Bamidele further revealed that the Board is taking steps to integrate selected training tools, methodologies, and course templates into the curriculum of the Nigerian Content Academy, NCA, NCDMB’s knowledge-sharing and capacity development institution. The integration is expected to strengthen the quality of training programmes offered by the academy and provide additional support for service companies and operators seeking specialised workforce development solutions.
He also commended OGTAN for its continued partnership with the Board over the years, particularly in supporting initiatives aimed at preparing young Nigerian graduates for employment opportunities in the oil and gas industry. He noted that the association’s contributions to training needs assessments and industry capacity-building programmes played a significant role in shaping the certification framework.
The Nigerian Content Trainers Registration Certificate will be issued across eleven areas of specialization, covering a broad range of technical competencies and soft skills relevant to the oil and gas industry. The certification is expected to establish a benchmark for professional training standards while promoting consistency and excellence in workforce development initiatives.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the programme as a timely intervention that aligns with the objectives of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act and the broader goals of the Petroleum Industry Act.
Analysts believed that the initiative will help bridge critical skills gaps, improve training outcomes, and strengthen the capacity of Nigerian professionals to compete effectively in an increasingly technology-driven industry.
The sensitisation workshop formed part of NCDMB’s ongoing efforts to deepen local content development, improve operational readiness, and build a highly skilled workforce capable of supporting the growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
As the industry continues to evolve, the Board believes that investing in the quality and competence of trainers will ultimately translate into a stronger, more productive workforce and contribute significantly to the achievement of Nigeria’s local content aspirations.
