The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board and Seplat Energy Plc have intensified efforts to establish a Centre of Excellence in Gas Development at Delta State University, aimed at strengthening research and local content in Nigeria’s energy sector.
At a strategic meeting in Abraka, stakeholders from both organisations engaged the university’s leadership on key requirements for the project, which received approval in 2024. The initiative forms part of a broader national framework to deepen research and development in the oil and gas industry, guided by a 10-year roadmap developed by PricewaterhouseCoopers.
Speaking at the meeting, NCDMB’s Director of Corporate Services, Abdulmalik Halilu, representing Executive Secretary Felix Omatsola Ogbe, said both organisations have aligned on the project’s scope, covering infrastructure, equipment, research policy, capacity development, and long-term sustainability.
He confirmed that a dedicated team of technical experts has been set up to drive implementation, with internal resources mobilised across quality assurance, research, and operational units to ensure effective delivery.
Seplat Energy’s Nigerian Content Manager, Simeon Ogari, highlighted the strategic importance of the project, noting that DELSU’s proximity to the ANOH Gas Processing Plant makes it an ideal location. He said the centre would serve as a hub for advanced research, innovation, and technology development within the gas sector.
Ogari emphasised the importance of collaboration through the “Triple Helix Model,” which integrates government, academia, and industry to drive sustainable development.
Providing further insight, GOSHEN CEO, Leonard Okafor said the roadmap identified key gaps in Nigeria’s oil and gas ecosystem, particularly weak linkages between sectors. He noted that the establishment of such centres is critical to strengthening local participation and building technical capacity.
Vice Chancellor of DELSU, Samuel Oghenovo Asagba, welcomed the initiative, assuring stakeholders of the university’s readiness to support implementation with its strong academic base in science and engineering.
With alignment secured among stakeholders, the centre is expected to play a key role in advancing gas development, innovation, and industrial growth, while creating opportunities for research, skills development, and local enterprise participation in Nigeria’s energy value chain.