Engr. Felix Ogbe, NCDMB Executive Secretary
…Nigeria must Position itself as an Attractive Hydrocarbon Investment Destination
–Felix Douglas
In his Welcome Address at the 5th edition of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Opportunity Fair (NOGOF) 2025, the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Felix Ogbe, said the Forum provides industry operators and stakeholders with a strategic platform to share forward-looking insights, showcase upcoming projects, and deepen collaboration across the oil and gas value chain.
According to the NCDMB boss more importantly, it reminds operators of the power of local capacity innovation, and inclusive partnerships in shaping the future of the industry.
In his words, “This year’s theme — Driving Investment and Production Growth: Shaping a Sustainable Oil and Gas Industry through Indigenous Capacity Development—could not be more timely.”
The Forum coincides with the 15th year anniversary of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act, 2010.
Following the establishment of the Board, it created a 10 years road map to deepen local participation and increase the participation of Nigerians in the activities of the oil and gas industry. “Today, we have moved from 5% in-country value retention in 2010 to 56% in December 2024.”
The NCDMB helmsman added that as the global energy landscape evolves, Nigeria must position herself as an attractive hydrocarbon investment destination and also as a beacon of sustainable development powered by local companies.
He said since the enactment of the NOGICD Act in 2010, the Board has made remarkable progress in building the capability and capacity of Nigerians and of Nigerian companies, attracting critical investments in-country, and enhancing value retention.
Engr. Ogbe maintained that in a bid to revitalize Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, President Bola Tinubu signed three Executive Orders. These Orders are designed to leverage the nation’s resources and position Nigeria as the preferred investment destination for the oil & gas sector in Africa.
The Board has been further reiterated by President Tinubu’s newly introduced “Nigeria First Policy,” it is a “bold, forward-thinking move” for Nigerian Content drive.
“We must commend Mr. President for this laudable initiative. Today, we are proud to say that Nigerian content has moved from aspiration to execution.”
He said sale of onshore assets by the IOCs to indigenous companies is a bold step and strategic shift towards deeper local participation and value retention.
“I use this opportunity to congratulate Renaissance, Seplat, Oando and all our indigenous companies on their milestone achievements. I encourage you not to relent.
We must sustain the momentum, and come together to support this local content stride in terms of procurement, capacity building, knowledge transfer, job creation and mentorship for upcoming investors.
With opportunities like UBETA, Bonga North, Zabazaba coming onstream, great opportunities are provided for Nigerian companies to further demonstrate their capacity. I encourage the IOCs to make conscious effort to engage local companies in line with the provisions of our laws.”
Engr. Ogbe posited that NCDMB remains unwavering in its commitment to creating the right policies, providing funding mechanisms, and partnerships to support Nigerian businesses.
He emphasised that NOGOF is a key part of the Board’s strategy—providing stakeholders early visibility of upcoming projects.
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