Ten young Nigerian graduates of engineering, technology, and the geosciences in Port Harcourt completed the opening formalities for a 12-month intensive human capital development (HCD) programme for the provision of offshore cased hole logging, mounted by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), in partnership with TotalEnergies Nigeria Limited and Geoplex Drillteq Limited.
The course content, which covers well control concepts, well drilling calculations, kick detection, shut-in procedures and verification, well control drills, post-shut-in procedures, well control methods, and drilling equipment, among other things, is expected to provide the trainees with foundational knowledge of basic drilling technology, drilling techniques and problem-solving for drilling challenges.
In an address at the event, the Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, represented by the General Manager, HCD, in the Board, Ms. Alexis Emelle, explained that the mission of the Board is to build indigenous capacity, deepen Nigerian participation in the oil and gas industry, and create opportunities that drive national growth.
He expressed sincere appreciation to TotalEnergies for the partnership and commitment to the development of Nigerian Content. According to her, “You are not just supporting a programme, you are shaping capabilities, building confidence, and strengthening the future of this [oil and gas] industry.”
He said the HCD programme is a statement of belief in the potential of the youth for self-development and meaningful contribution to the oil and gas sector. He urged the trainees to approach the opportunity with seriousness and be disciplined, focused, and committed to every aspect of the training.
“Do not drift through this programme,” he urged them, exhorting everyone “to own it, extract value from every lesson, every assignment, every moment in the field.”
He told the trainees that the industry needs problem-solvers, innovators, and professionals who can be trusted with critical responsibilities.
In opening remarks, the Deputy General Manager, Nigerian Content at TotalEnergies, Dr. Cyprain Ojum, said the NC-HCD programme reflects his company’s shared commitment with the NCDMB to strengthening Nigerian Content, building sustainable human capacity, and fostering strategic collaboration across the two organisations.
According to Dr. Ojum, who was represented by Mr. Daniel Dents, TotalEnergies recognizes that the future of the oil and gas industry depends not only on technological advancement but also on the continuous development of skilled, competent, and empowered professionals.
The NC-HCD programme underscores NCDMB’s continued commitment to strengthening local capacity, promoting knowledge transfer, and creating sustainable employment opportunities for Nigerians in line with the objectives of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act.
