Maritime Sector Gets Lift as 39 Youths Begin Chevron–Intels Human Capacity Development Programme
Nigeria’s drive to strengthen local participation in the maritime and oil and gas industries received a major boost on Friday as 39 young graduates commenced preliminary stages of cadetship training under the Nigerian Content–Human Capacity Development (NC-HCD) programme, a joint initiative of Chevron Nigeria Limited and Intels Nigeria Limited.
The programme, which is anchored on the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board’s (NCDMB) 60:20:20 Strategic Training Model, offers sea time experience, Certificate of Competence (CoC) training, and practical exposure across technical domains. Training will be delivered by Lagos-based Stoilic Shipping Limited, a member of the International Maritime Professionals Association (IMPA).
Speaking at the flag-off in Port Harcourt, NCDMB Executive Secretary, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, described human capital development as a “non-negotiable pillar of the oil and gas industry’s development road map,” stressing that embedding HCD into core planning transforms local content from aspiration to reality. Represented by the Board’s General Manager, Human Capacity Development, Barr. Esueme Dan Kikile, Ogbe said the 18-month cadetship programme marks “a declaration of our collective commitment to nurturing world-class Nigerian professionals” who will drive the future of the maritime sector.
Ogbe commended Chevron Nigeria Limited for its consistent compliance with Nigerian Content requirements and for showing leadership in advancing national capacity building. He also applauded the Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria (OGTAN) for aligning training content with industry needs and bridging the gap between classroom learning and employability.
Chevron’s Capacity Building Advisor, Mr. Victor Inyere, charged the cadets to make the most of the opportunity, noting that their selection reflects “hard work and dedication.” He assured that Chevron remains committed to Nigerian Content development, while praising NCDMB’s role in driving regulation and capacity growth.
On behalf of Stoilic Shipping Limited, General Manager (Administration) Mrs. Chimamanda Okafor revealed that the company’s cadets have consistently recorded a 100 percent pass rate in CoC assessments. She pledged that Stoilic would continue to secure placements for cadets on vessels and open international opportunities. Looking ahead, she disclosed plans for a “world-recognised maritime university in Nigeria,” anchored on strong international partnerships and cutting-edge maritime education.
She explained that the new batch of trainees comprises both sea time cadets – graduates requiring onboard practical exposure – and CoC cadets, who have completed initial phases of their training.
The NC-HCD programme is expected to achieve a 60 percent job placement rate for successful participants after 18 months, in line with NCDMB’s policy thrust of enhancing indigenous participation, boosting employment, and deepening value retention within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Officials of the NCDMB present at the event included Barr. Esueme Dan Kikile, Mr. Suleiman Amolegbe, and Ms. Ophelia Jackson.
