Forty-eight young Nigerian engineers have begun a 12-month specialised training programme in subsea engineering, launched by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board in partnership with Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited and Global Ocean Engineers Nigeria Limited.
The initiative, inaugurated in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, aims to close critical technical skills gaps in the country’s oil and gas sector and strengthen local capacity for offshore and deepwater operations.
It forms part of the Board’s Top 10 Field Readiness Human Capacity Development programmes, which promote technology transfer and greater Nigerian involvement in high-value industry activities.
Participants will undergo six months of classroom instruction followed by six months of structured on-the-job training. Core modules cover risers and hydrodynamics engineering, offshore structures design, pipeline engineering, and computer-aided design using AutoCAD.
The curriculum also emphasises problem-solving, teamwork, professionalism and operational safety.
Representing NCDMB Executive Secretary Engr.
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Felix Omatsola Ogbe, General Manager of Human Capacity Development Ms. Emelle Alexis described the programme as a vital step in preparing Nigerians for the precise demands of subsea work.
“Today marks the beginning of a transformational journey for 48 young Nigerians in a highly specialised field that demands precision, discipline and accountability,” she said, urging trainees to show commitment so they can contribute to safer, more efficient and environmentally responsible operations.
Heritage Energy’s Nigerian Content Development Manager Felix Osiwo reaffirmed the company’s support for building a skilled local workforce capable of sustaining current and future energy projects.
Global Ocean Engineers Managing Director George Ebuh, represented by Engr. Ifedolapo Aderibigbe, called the scheme a strategic investment in domestic expertise essential for reliable offshore infrastructure.
Trainees welcomed the chance to gain specialised skills, particularly in safety procedures and AutoCAD.
Organisers expressed confidence that the graduates will help advance Nigeria’s energy industry through enhanced indigenous technical capability.
