The drive to position Nigeria’s maritime sector as a global hub for talent development gained fresh momentum on Friday as 39 young graduates officially began their journey under the Nigerian Content–Human Capacity Development (NC-HCD) programme, a partnership between Chevron Nigeria Limited and Intels Nigeria Limited.
The launch, held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, marked the beginning of an 18-month intensive cadetship training designed to deliver sea-time experience, Certificate of Competence (CoC) training, and practical exposure to technical operations. The programme will be implemented by Stoilic Shipping Limited, a Lagos-based maritime company and member of the International Maritime Professionals Association (IMPA).
Human Capital Development: The Bedrock of Local Content
At the heart of the initiative is the 60:20:20 Strategic Training Model of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB). The framework provides that:
- 60% of trainees secure job placements upon completion,
- 20% progress to advanced training opportunities, and
- 20% transition into entrepreneurial ventures within the sector.
Speaking at the ceremony, NCDMB Executive Secretary, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, said the programme underscores the Board’s conviction that human capital development is “a non-negotiable pillar” of Nigeria’s oil, gas, and maritime industries.
“When we embed HCD into the core of our strategic planning, local content ceases to be an aspiration – it becomes our reality,” Engr. Ogbe declared.
He stressed that the cadetship scheme is not merely another training milestone but a declaration of Nigeria’s readiness to nurture world-class professionals capable of competing globally in a highly technical and competitive sector.
Represented by Barr. Esueme Dan Kikile, GM Human Capacity Development, Ogbe added that investment in people is the surest path to sustainability, competitiveness, and economic growth.
Industry Players Show Commitment
Chevron Nigeria Limited, a long-standing partner in Nigeria’s local content journey, reaffirmed its support through its Capacity Building Advisor, Mr. Victor Inyere. Addressing the cadets, he emphasized that their selection reflects not just merit but also a national expectation for them to become ambassadors of excellence.
“This opportunity is a defining moment in your careers. The skills you acquire here will shape your professional future and position you to contribute to national development,” he told the trainees.
He assured NCDMB that Chevron would continue to play a leading role in advancing Nigerian Content, describing the Board as a “credible regulator and facilitator of capacity building.”
For Stoilic Shipping Limited, the training provider, the programme aligns with its mission to transform Nigeria’s maritime sector. Represented by Mrs. Chimamanda Okafor, General Manager of Administration, Stoilic showcased its track record of success – including a 100% pass rate in CoC assessments for previous cadets.
“We will not only train but also place cadets on vessels, opening doors for them internationally,” she said.
She further revealed plans to establish a world-class maritime university in Nigeria, supported by international partnerships, which would set a new benchmark for maritime education in Africa.
Bridging Training and Employability
Industry stakeholders also highlighted the crucial role of the Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria (OGTAN), which has consistently aligned training curricula with industry realities. According to NCDMB, OGTAN has ensured that capacity building goes beyond classroom learning to real-world applicability, bridging the gap between training and employability.
Engr. Ogbe urged mentors and training providers to instill not only technical skills but also values, discipline, and resilience in the cadets. “Our goal is to raise professionals who can stand tall in any environment, anywhere in the world,” he said.
A Boost for Nigeria’s Maritime Future
Dr Obinna Ezeobi, GM Corporate Communications revealed that the launch of this programme comes at a time when Nigeria is pushing to expand its maritime industry, reduce dependence on foreign expertise, and generate jobs for its young population. He further explained that with nearly 40 cadets beginning this cycle, the long-term impact could be significant, from reducing capital flight to positioning Nigeria as a credible exporter of maritime talent.
Stakeholders agree that beyond technical skills, the initiative sends a strong signal that Nigeria is serious about building a knowledge-driven economy where youth play a central role.
For the cadets, the journey is both an opportunity and a challenge. They are expected to undergo rigorous training that includes sea-time exposure, technical operations, and international-level competence certification – qualifications that are often scarce and expensive to obtain abroad.
Looking Ahead
With Chevron, Intels, and NCDMB working hand in hand, this cohort of 39 graduates represents more than just trainees. They symbolize the new generation of Nigerian maritime professionals who could redefine the sector and enhance its global standing.
As the first stages of the programme unfold, expectations remain high – not only for successful completion of the 18-month training but also for tangible contributions to Nigeria’s quest for self-reliance in the oil, gas, and maritime industries.
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