Oil sector: Embrace global standards, NCDMB urges stakeholders

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Omatsola Ogbe, has urged stakeholders in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry to “always think global” while implementing the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act 2010 and the Petroleum Industry Act 2021.

“With the right mindset and strategic execution, Nigeria can continue to be a model for how Local Content can drive industrialisation, economic diversification, and national prosperity,” he stated.

Represented by Olugbenga Sheba, General Manager of the Infrastructure Capacity Building Directorate, Ogbe made these remarks at the Conference Centre of the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) in Effurun, Delta State, on Wednesday.

He was speaking at the opening of a two-day conference and exhibition themed “Local Content, Global Impact: Energising Nigerian Expertise in the Oil and Gas Industry for National Growth.”

The event, organised by Vanguard Media Ltd in collaboration with the Delta State Government and in partnership with the NCDMB, brought together government officials, regulators, industrialists, academics, researchers, and other professionals.

Ogbe stressed the importance of balancing Local Content with global competitiveness. “As we continue to implement and refine our Local Content Act, let us do so with a commitment to global competitiveness, collaborative partnerships, and unwavering adherence to international standards,” he said.

He cautioned that “Local Content should never be at the expense of global standards” but should instead ensure that indigenous companies develop the technical competence to compete internationally.

“Our aim at the NCDMB, through our various policies and guidelines, is to ensure that local capacities are built alongside the adoption of international standards.

“This is why we actively promote training, certification, and technology partnerships that allow Nigerian businesses to meet prerequisite standards,” he added.

Ogbe highlighted the significance of Local Content in fostering partnerships. “Through strategic collaborations between indigenous firms and international Original Equipment Manufacturers, we create a dynamic ecosystem where knowledge is exchanged, expertise is developed, and resources are optimised.”

He noted that the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act 2010 and the Petroleum Industry Act 2021 have facilitated numerous joint ventures and capacity-building programmes, contributing to the expansion of Nigerian-owned businesses.

“These wins have strengthened our oil and gas sector while also catalysing innovation and enterprise in industries such as manufacturing, marine, and ICT,” he said.

He further remarked, “The world today is interconnected, and competitiveness is not achieved in isolation. Our Local Content implementation strategy is designed to integrate Nigeria into global value chains, ensuring that Nigerian businesses are not just consumers but contributors to international markets.

“Local Content is a catalyst for economic transformation. It is not about exclusion; it is about inclusion. It is not about mediocrity; it is about excellence. It is not about short-term gain; it is about long-term sustainability.”

Also speaking at the forum, the President of the Warri Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (WACCIMA), Prince Anthony Okoh, stressed that “the future of Local Content in Nigeria must go beyond mere participation.”

“It must focus on excellence, innovation, and sustainability,” he emphasised.

Okoh identified key areas that need attention, including bridging the skills gap, encouraging homegrown innovation, strengthening host community engagement, improving access to finance for local companies, and positioning for global opportunities.

He urged stakeholders to “be more proactive in developing Nigerian expertise, ensuring that our oil and gas sector is not just driven by foreign investments but by homegrown capacity and innovation.”

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