The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and the Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) have jointly launched a landmark initiative to strengthen engineering education and innovation in Nigeria, with the groundbreaking of the Human Capital Development (HCD) Institutional Strengthening Project – NLNG Research and Innovation Centre for Computer and Electrical Engineering at Rivers State University (RSU).
The ceremony was attended by senior officials of NCDMB, including Engr. Abayomi Bamidele, Director of Capacity Building, who represented the Executive Secretary, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, FNSE, alongside Alexis Emelle, General Manager, Capacity Building, and other Board representatives.
NCDMB’s Commitment to Human Capital Development
Speaking on behalf of the Executive Secretary, Engr. Bamidele reaffirmed NCDMB’s commitment to advancing human capital development beyond conventional training. He stressed the importance of providing infrastructure and enabling environments for quality education, practical learning, and skills acquisition.
He noted that the project is expected to benefit more than 40,000 students, reiterating the Board’s dedication to supporting education and talent development across Nigeria. He also commended NLNG as a long-standing partner in initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigerian talent and contributing to national development.
Representing NLNG, Mrs. Sophia Horsfall, General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, described the project as a significant milestone for engineering education, research, and innovation in Nigeria.
She explained that the Centre will equip students, lecturers, and researchers with specialised knowledge, modern facilities, and practical experience to meet emerging industry demands driven by digitalisation, automation, and artificial intelligence. Horsfall added that the project demonstrates the practical implementation of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act (2010) and the NCDMB Human Capacity Development Guidelines (2020), while strengthening collaboration among government, industry, and academia.
The Centre will comprise a three-storey facility covering more than 9,000 square metres, with 18 specialised laboratory spaces for practical learning, applied research, and innovation in computer, electrical, and electronic engineering.
The planned integration of NLNG’s Research and Development Implementation Consultancy within the Centre is expected to connect university research with real-world industry and societal challenges.
The project represents a strategic partnership between NCDMB and NLNG to develop Nigerian talent, strengthen engineering education, promote research and innovation, and build the technical capacity required for Nigeria’s future.
