As part of efforts  to enhance economic growth and foster innovation in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), in collaboration with the Nigerian Content Human Capacity Development (NC-HCD), has inaugurated a comprehensive Basic Training Programme in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. This initiative forms part of the larger Train 7 Project, aimed at advancing capacity building within the sector.

The training programme, which spans 12 months, has admitted 331 graduates from various academic backgrounds. The participants were meticulously selected through the NOGIC Joint Qualification System (JQS) portal managed by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB). The curriculum is designed to provide in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in crucial fields such as Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Engineering, Welding and Fabrication, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), Marine and Offshore Services, and Facility Management.

Speaking at the programme’s launch, Corporate Liaison Manager for the Train 7 Project Engr. Joshua Anemeje, emphasized the transformative potential of the initiative. He attributed its success to the steadfast support of the NCDMB.

“We are excited to see how this programme will transform the lives of these young men and women. NLNG takes pride in empowering people and creating opportunities for skill and capacity development,” Anemeje remarked.

He also highlighted the broader impact of the ongoing construction of the Train 7 Project at the Finima Plant site on Bonny Island, which has already created over 10,000 jobs for skilled workers. Anemeje encouraged participants to maximize the opportunities provided and apply their newly acquired skills to address future challenges.

Dr. Ama Ikuru, who represented NCDMB’s Executive Secretary, Engr. Felix Ogbe, lauded the programme as a testament to the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act’s implementation. He underscored its goal of building a robust talent pool capable of driving the sector’s growth.

“This programme represents a significant investment in the future of our country. It equips young people with both practical and theoretical knowledge, providing clear pathways to employment for those who excel,” Dr. Ikuru said.

He further encouraged other graduates to take advantage of opportunities by registering on the NOGIC JQS portal—a critical resource for career development in the oil and gas sector.

The training is facilitated by the Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria (OGTAN) and aligns with the Train 7 Project’s objectives. Upon completion, the Train 7 facility is expected to boost NLNG’s production capacity by 35%, increasing output from 22 million metric tonnes per annum (MTPA) to 30 MTPA.

This initiative underscores the shared vision of NLNG and NCDMB to foster innovation, enhance expertise, and promote sustainable energy development while equipping Nigeria’s youth with skills essential for a thriving future.

As participants embark on this intensive programme, NLNG and NCDMB’s commitment to human capacity development remains a cornerstone for the country’s sustainable growth. This initiative not only fulfills local content mandates but also ensures the availability of a globally competitive workforce to meet the industry’s evolving demands.