By Els William
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board on Monday said it had taken concrete steps to deepen human capital development in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, with plans underway to establish a Centre of Excellence on Gas Development at Delta State University.
The move, disclosed via the Board’s official X platform, followed a high-level visit to the university by a delegation led by the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Felix Omatsola Ogbe, alongside representatives of Seplat Energy.
The proposed centre is expected to serve as a strategic hub for research, innovation, and specialised training in gas development, reinforcing Nigeria’s broader agenda to optimise its vast gas resources and strengthen local participation across the energy value chain.
Speaking during the visit, the Director of Corporate Services at NCDMB, Abdulmalik Halilu, who represented the Executive Secretary, emphasised the significance of the initiative in aligning with national development priorities.
He noted that the establishment of the centre would enhance indigenous technical capacity and provide a platform for advancing gas-focused research and skills development in the country.
Industry partner, Seplat Energy, also reaffirmed its support for the project. Representing the company, Simeon Ogari described the proposed facility as a “critical platform” for driving innovation and equipping professionals with the competencies required in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.
He commended Delta State University for its readiness to host the centre, expressing confidence in the institution’s ability to deliver sustained academic and research excellence.
In a related remark, the General Manager, Midstream at NCDMB, Silas Ajimijaye, urged the university to take ownership of the project, stressing the importance of ensuring its effective and purposeful utilisation upon completion.
Responding, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Samuel Ogheneovo Asagba, assured the delegation of the institution’s full commitment to the initiative.
He pledged that the university would maximise the centre’s potential through sustained research output and robust institutional support, aimed at guaranteeing its long-term success.
Energy analysts say the initiative underscores a growing focus on gas as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s energy transition strategy, particularly as the country seeks to leverage its abundant reserves to drive industrialisation, expand domestic utilisation, and enhance export potential.
The planned Centre of Excellence is also expected to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry, bridge critical skills gaps, and position Nigeria for greater competitiveness in the global gas market.