By Peace Udugba
In line with its capacity-building mandate, the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) is set to launch a comprehensive digitalization training programme targeting 3,700 youths across the country.
The initiative, launched under the NCDMB Digitalization Initiative (NDI) aims to equip young Nigerians with critical digital skills to thrive in the evolving industrial landscape and global economy.
Providing insight into the programme, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, explained that the oil and gas industry—and its allied sectors—are rapidly adopting advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), Robotics, Virtual and Augmented Reality, Drones, and Blockchain-based data exchange.
According to him, this shift toward digitization is driven by the need to enhance productivity, optimise costs, and ensure low-carbon operations. He added that the integration of digital solutions also promotes remote operations, lean organisational structures, smart and preventive facility management, and automation of business processes.
Engr. Ogbe affirmed that the training aligns with NCDMB’s strategic focus on preparing Nigerian youths for future jobs and driving inclusive growth in the digital economy.
NCDMB to Empower 3,700 Youths with Digital Skills in Nationwide Training Programme
In line with its mandate to build capacity in the oil and gas industry, the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has launched a comprehensive digitalization training programme targeting 3,700 youths across Nigeria.
Speaking on the initiative under the NCDMB Digitalization Initiative (NDI), Executive Secretary of the Board, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, said the programme is designed to equip Nigerian youths with future-proof digital skills relevant to the evolving oil and gas landscape. He highlighted the adoption of advanced technologies such as AI, Big Data, Cloud Computing, IIoT, Cybersecurity, Drones, Robotics, and Blockchain in the sector, noting that digitization enhances productivity, cost-efficiency, low carbon operations, and business automation.
Reaffirming the Board’s commitment, Engr. Ogbe emphasized the need to prepare the industry’s supply chain for future challenges and opportunities.
Also speaking, the Director of Corporate Services, Dr. Abdulmalik Halilu, said the NDI specifically targets youths aged 35 and below, with a focus on high-impact areas that generate value and promote sustainable growth.
According to programme details, the training will span Nigeria’s 36 states and the FCT over three years. The pilot phase will train 100 youths, selected via the NOGIC JQS portal. Pre-selection tests will be held across the six geopolitical zones:
– South East (Umuahia) – Sept 30
– South South (Warri) – Oct 3
– South West (Lagos) – Oct 6
– North East (Kaduna) – Oct 6
– North Central (Minna) – Oct 9
– North West (Taraba) – Oct 9
