NCDMB, Renaissance, PETAN empower 100 graduates through oil and gas internship programme
Initiative targets skills transfer, local capacity growth in Nigeria’s energy industry
One hundred young Nigerian graduates have commenced the 2025/2027 Graduate Internship Programme jointly sponsored by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, and the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN). The initiative is designed to equip young professionals with practical exposure, technical skills, and workplace experience in the oil and gas industry.
The participants, drawn from engineering, geology, ICT, natural sciences, and other related disciplines, will undergo structured, industry-relevant training with PETAN member companies across the oil and gas value chain.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held at the Renaissance Residential Area Club Hall in Port Harcourt, the Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe described the initiative as a strategic contribution to national efforts aimed at deepening human capacity development and strengthening local participation in Nigeria’s energy value chain.
Represented by the General Manager, Human Capacity Development (HCD), Mr Esueme Dan Kikile, Engr. Ogbe stressed that while infrastructure and asset ownership are critical, “human capacity development remains the cornerstone of the Board’s mandate.” He reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to supporting programmes that advance knowledge transfer, skills enhancement, and capacity retention within the country.
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The NCDMB boss commended Renaissance Africa Energy (formerly Shell Petroleum Development Company) and PETAN for sustaining the initiative, which began under SPDC and is now in its second edition. He lauded their leadership and alignment with the national content development agenda.
Engr. Ogbe further urged the interns to approach the opportunity with diligence, discipline, and a commitment to excellence, noting that they represent “the next generation of professionals who will sustain Nigeria’s energy future.” He added that the skills and values acquired during the programme would become vital components of the nation’s strategic human capital asset.
Delivering a joint presentation on the objectives and expected outcomes of the programme, PETAN representatives, Dr Okey Ukaegbu and Mr Chinedu Maduaku, explained that the interns deployed to PETAN member companies are expected to drive innovation and operational excellence within their host organisations.
In his closing remarks, the General Manager, Nigerian Content Development of Renaissance Africa Energy, Mr Kene Akubue, described the collaboration as a demonstration of progressive synergy within the oil and gas industry. He affirmed that Renaissance Africa Energy would remain committed to initiatives that enhance indigenous participation and deepen human capacity development across the sector.
