Oil companies engage PTDF trained welders for project implementation

SOME national oil companies have started engaging the services of Petroleum Trust Development Fund (PTDF) trained welders for the implementation of their oil and gas service contracts.

This followed the exposure given to skills and competencies of the welders through PTDF organized Post Training Attachment (PTA) programme, a practical on-the-job internship scheme that prepares beneficiaries for absorption into the industry.

The PTA programme, according to a statement authorized by Head, Press and External Relations of the fund, Kalu Otisi, a copy of which was made available to the Nigerian Tribune in Abuja, on Tuesday, is currently on-going in the major refineries of Port-Harcourt, Kaduna and Warri.

It said one of the trainees, Ibrahim Mohammed was employed by Dorman Long Engineering Limited, a leading oilfield equipment, marine structural engineering and fabrication company.

“The other is Gideon Uko, who on completion of the six months Post Training Attachment programme was engaged by Supertech Investment Limited, a contractor with the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC) that specializes in Engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services.

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“The management of the Refineries commended PTDF for the high level of training given to the welders and are encouraged by the skills displayed by the beneficiaries under the PTA. Executive Director Operations, WRPC, Engr. Ariaga Azubuike Uzoma at the close-out ceremony of the second batch of the PTA scheme said that the welders have been of immense support and have added value to the operations of the refinery plant.” It added.

In the meantime, more PTDF trained welders are being exposed to the practical on-the-job experience in the industry with the expectation of future engagement by the industry.

At the Port-Harcourt Refining and Petrochemical Company (PHRC), the 3rd batch of the PTA scheme has flagged off. Impressed by the diligence, professionalism and commitment to duty exhibited by the previous beneficiaries, the Management of the Refining Company requested for an increase in the number of PTDF trained welders for enrolment into the PTA Scheme.