Thirty-three young engineers and geoscience graduates have commenced a 12-month specialist training programme in pipeline engineering, corrosion control and monitoring in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The programme is delivered under the Nigerian Content Human Capital Development initiative by Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited and MJD Oilfield Services Limited, in partnership with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
Participants will undergo a blend of classroom instruction, simulation-based learning, field demonstrations and on-the-job training, supported by mentorship, case studies and continuous assessment.
Organisers said the goal is to produce project-ready personnel and expand Nigeria’s pipeline integrity talent pool, strengthening long-term infrastructure reliability.
Opening the programme, NCDMB’s Manager of Human Capital Development, Tarilate Bribena-Teide, said pipeline pigging and corrosion control are essential to maintaining system integrity, preventing failures and protecting the environment and the economy.
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Representing the Board’s Executive Secretary, Felix Omatsola Ogbe, she stated that the skills acquired would enable trainees to contribute to major national projects, including the 614-kilometre Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano Gas Pipeline.
Ogbe added that the initiative aligns with the Board’s mandate to deepen Nigerian participation across the oil and gas value chain and to create opportunities that support national growth, while commending Renaissance Africa for its partnership and investment in local talent.
Speaking on behalf of Renaissance Africa, Funso Alabi thanked the NCDMB for its support and impact on human capital development since the Board’s establishment.
Alabi cited increased Nigerian representation in key industry roles at home and abroad and also praised MJD Oilfield Services for assembling an experienced training faculty.
MJD’s Managing Director, Olayemi Familusi, said regulatory reforms and local content policies had accelerated the growth of indigenous firms and skills development across the sector.
Closing the session, MJD Project Manager Austin Ugbunaia assured stakeholders of rigorous training and practical exposure for participants.