The first-ever Local Content Conference, themed “Local Content, Global Impact: Energizing Nigerian Expertise in the Oil and Gas Industry for National Growth,” took place from March 19-20, 2025, at the Petroleum Training Institute Event Centre in Warri, Delta State. Organized by Vanguard Media Limited in partnership with the Delta State Government and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), the event brought together key stakeholders from government, industry, and local communities to explore the potential of local content in driving national growth.
The conference welcomed distinguished guests, including past presidents and board members of the Delta Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (DACCIMA), such as Chiefs Simon Asite and Emma Avworo, alongside Mrs. Erhumu Ekperahwa, the State Coordinator for the Women Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Their participation enriched discussions with valuable insights and experiences.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Hon. Peter Okagbare Uviejitobor, the Commissioner for Oil and Gas, reiterated the state’s commitment to empowering local businesses and professionals in the oil and gas sector. He highlighted recent initiatives, including the establishment of the Department of Local Content and the Delta State Local Content Agency, aimed at promoting indigenous participation.
Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, represented by Barr. Olugbenga Shebo, General Manager of Infrastructure and Capacity Building, emphasized the critical role of local content in fostering economic growth, technology transfer, and job creation. He noted that local content is a strategic approach to building indigenous capacity while aligning with global best practices.
During the conference, attendees voiced concerns regarding the transparency of funds managed by the NCDMB, particularly those earmarked for enhancing the capacity of local companies through the Bank of Industry. Many expressed that the lack of publicity surrounding these funding opportunities limited access for potential beneficiaries. Additionally, there was a shared sentiment that the NCDMB’s engagement with Delta State communities hosting oil and gas companies must improve to bridge the gap between the board’s initiatives and local needs.
Prince Engr. Anthony Okoh, President of DACCIMA and Chairman of the occasion, called for a more global and inclusive approach to local content policy, advocating for merit to guide community agendas over tribal sentiments. He underscored the vital role of chambers of commerce in representing both small and large businesses in dialogues with companies and the NCDMB.
The Local Content Conference in Warri marked a pivotal moment in fostering indigenous participation in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, facilitating impactful discussions on leveraging local expertise for national development. The insights and recommendations from this conference are expected to shape future policies aimed at strengthening local content development in the sector.
This report is brought to you by Newspot Nigeria.
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