News Wings

Tag: Engineering

  • Montego Celebrates Role in Port Harcourt Refinery Rehabilitation

    Montego Celebrates Role in Port Harcourt Refinery Rehabilitation

    As the Port Harcourt Refinery achieves a significant milestone in its rehabilitation journey, Montego is proud to announce its pivotal role as a main subcontractor, driving local content and contributing to this historic venture.

    Montego, a leading Nigerian energy servicing company, played a critical role in the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation, and Commissioning (EPCIC) of the refinery. This transformative effort, which has collectively achieved over 16 million manhours, includes Montego’s outstanding contribution of nearly 6 million manhours—all accomplished without a single Loss Time Injury (LTI). This remarkable safety record underscores Montego’s commitment to operational excellence and world-class standards.

    Speaking on the achievement, Montego’s management commended the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) for its leadership and the Federal Government for its unwavering commitment to energy security. Montego also expressed gratitude to Tecnimont, the main contractor, for trusting in its expertise and enabling seamless collaboration in achieving this milestone. “As an indigenous company, we take immense pride in being part of this transformative project. Our contribution to achieving this milestone reflects Montego’s dedication to empowering production in Nigeria and enhancing the nation’s energy infrastructure,” a Montego representative remarked.

    The restoration of the refinery to full functionality is a monumental step toward Nigeria’s energy independence, with the facility now delivering vital petroleum products such as Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and Household Kerosene (HHK) to the market. 

    This achievement reflects Montego’s alignment with the government’s vision for sustainable development and highlights the critical role indigenous companies play in nation-building.

    Montego remains committed to excellence, innovation, and sustainability, reinforcing its position as a key contributor to the growth of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. 

  • Over 300 Youths benefit as NLNG begins Nigerian Content HCD Trainings

    Over 300 Youths benefit as NLNG begins Nigerian Content HCD Trainings

    NLNG, last week, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, kicked off its Nigerian Content Human Capacity Development (NC-HCD) Basic Training Programme for the NLNG Train 7 Project, a major NC programme aimed at reskilling young graduates and developing human capital.

    A total of 331 young graduates from diverse academic disciplines who emerged successful out of 848 previously shortlisted from the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content (NOGIC) Joint Qualification System (JQS) portal of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), are undergoing the 12-month programme.

    Areas of training include ICT, Engineering, Welding and Fabrication, Non-destructive Testing (NDT), Lifting and Working at Heights, Quality Management Systems, Marine and Offshore Services, and Facility Management and Maintenance.

    In a welcome address at the event, the NLNG Train 7 Corporate Liaison Manager, Engr Joshua Anemeje, who represented the Train 7 project, said the execution of the project has progressed remarkably well and attributed the successful commencement of the NC-HCD Training Programme to the support of the NCDMB.

    “We are excited to see the number of young men and women this programme will impact. NLNG takes pride in empowering our people, providing an environment that builds skills and capabilities. As you know, the Train 7 Project is nearly 75% complete, employing over 10,000 skilled individuals on-site. This training offers participants a chance to make the most of their learning and apply it in future endeavours,” he said.

    Engr Anemeje disclosed that there are over 10,000 workers actively engaged in the construction of the Train 7 Project at the NLNG Plant Site at Finima, Bonny Island, Rivers State. He charged the trainees to stay focused and work towards utilising the skills they acquire for future endeavours.

    In the keynote address, the NCDMB Executive Secretary, Engr Felix Ogbe, FNSE, represented by the Director of Capacity Building and Corporate Services, Dr Ama Ikuru, expressed joy that the training programme had finally taken off in fulfilment of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act requirement on human capital development.

    He said the programme, designed to build a pool of skilled and globally competitive workers to support the development and growth of the Nigerian oil and gas industry and its related sectors, represents a crucial investment in our country’s future and remains a commitment to the empowerment of the next generation of skilled professionals.

    Addressing the trainees, Dr. Ikuru stated that the opportunity created by the NC-HCD programme will enable them to build a strong foundation in both knowledge and practical skills. He remarked that there was a clear pathway to employment for high-performing trainees.

    He further remarked that young graduates seeking to benefit from similar training for oil and gas industry-related jobs can register on the NCDMB’s NOGIC JQS Portal, which is the statutorily established database for companies operating and providing services in the sector.

    The training is provided by the Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria (OGTAN).

    The Train 7 Project is expected to increase the production capacity of the NLNG Terminal by 35 per cent, from the current 22 million metric tonnes per annum (mtpa) to 30 mtpa.

  • Rite Foods, Popbeach Club Roll Out ‘Riteonthebeach’ Festival Season Four

    Rite Foods, Popbeach Club Roll Out ‘Riteonthebeach’ Festival Season Four

    Rite Foods Limited, a market leader in the food and beverage industry, and Popbeach Club have unveiled the 2024 edition of ‘Riteonthebeach’ Festival with a Symposium for students of tertiary institutions in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Law Faculties to create awareness on the values inherent in ecological preservation. The event was held in Lagos, on Monday, 11th November 2024.

    The Festival which is in its fourth year and the beginning of the ‘Riteonthebeach’ Residency programme, is intended to unlock the value in plastic, the environment, and human development using data collected through scientific methods, and to provide a realistic valuation for the importance of saving the Lagos Western Peninsula and its adjacent mangrove forests.

    This partnership between Rite Foods and Popbeach Club, a Lagos Eco-Resort, is conceived to combat ocean plastic pollution, improve literacy, and create employment opportunities by facilitating the exchange of waste plastic for recycling and education scholarships for children in shoreline communities.

    In his remark, the Head, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability at Rite Foods Limited, Mr. Ekuma Eze who was represented by Dennis Aideloje, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Manager, Rite Foods Limited, said, “Riteonthebeach is part of the company’s commitment to proffering sustainable solutions to the plastic menace and equipping young Nigerians with the insights and skills needed to address the challenges of climate change.”

    “Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles that litter the beaches and waterways require immediate action and through the ‘Riteonthebeach’ Symposium, Rite Foods hopes to ignite a sense of purpose that drives each participant to take responsibility for eliminating plastics on the coastline”, he added.

    Eze reiterated that, “If plastics continue to choke the nation’s waterways and shorelines, the capacity to absorb carbon and support biodiversity will be drastically reduced, hence the need to keep them free from plastics which can be recycled into other useful products.”

    Akin Disu, the Founder of Popbeachclub averred that the new project will remove the plastics, process and recycle onsite to plastic pellets, and a whole lot more using blockchain technology for transparency. He said by using technology and data, ‘Rite On The Beach’ can create tools to determine a realistic valuation for the region and provide the required developmental capital to deliver sustainable growth to the region.

    “Our aim is to provide a template for ecological preservation and sustainable development of rural communities through collaboration and community engagement”, he stated.

    According to Disu, while eco-tourism is a cornerstone of ‘Riteonthebeach’ mission, the shift towards carbon accountability is of crucial importance, in line with Lagos State’s significant step to carbon neutrality, a global requirement for responsible development.

    He said over the past three years, the ecological conservation project has removed approximately 30 tons of plastic bottles and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for recycling, and has created jobs, scholarships, and training for over 1,000 youths in coastal communities.

  • Edu-tainment for literacy

    Edu-tainment for literacy

    For MultiChoice, Africa’s most-loved storyteller, an intentional strategy to educate and inform while also entertaining can have a real impact on a continent where literacy is key to improving people’s lives.

    The world celebrated International Literacy Day (ILD) on 8 September, a day highlighting the value of literacy and the critical importance of accessing knowledge in a way that feels comfortable. This focus is especially relevant in Africa, where understanding the mother tongue, reading, and education are crucial for empowering young people with the knowledge needed to improve their future prospects.

    This is why the African media and entertainment group, MultiChoice Africa, embraces every opportunity to promote literacy and education. The company leverages its diverse content platforms to provide learning and educational programming for young viewers across the continent. Fully aware of the power of television in promoting literacy, particularly in areas with limited access to traditional education, MultiChoice operates numerous channels on its DStv and GOtv services. These channels combine entertainment and education, particularly in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Educational offerings include Discovery Channel, National Geographic, Mindset Learn (Maths, Science, Technology), Da Vinci Learning, and the History Channel.

    Nick Jr., the educational preschool channel from Nickelodeon, is available in several local languages, allowing African children to learn in their mother tongues. This ensures that young viewers receive the highest educational value, improving their literacy, numeracy, and broader life skills. Children also access educational content in their home languages, including Igbo, Hausa, and Yoruba, via Africa Magic.

    MultiChoice produces over 6,500 hours of local content each year and has amassed a content library of over 84,000 hours in total. This collection of homegrown, local content reflects indigenous values and storytelling, playing a crucial role in cultural education.

    These programming options come bundled with a range of additional free-to-air local content, all supporting the education of Africa’s children, nurturing a generation of talented young people confident in expressing their culture.

    In line with its mission to reduce learning poverty and boost literacy, MultiChoice extended its efforts beyond television and into classrooms through the MultiChoice Resource Center initiative, which operated from 20216 – 2020. During this time, MultiChoice demonstrated its commitment to improving literacy and education in Nigeria by donating digital learning tools to over 400 schools across Lagos, Ogun, Edo, Enugu, Jigawa, Benue, and Zamfara states.

    In Namibia, MultiChoice partnered with LearnOnOne to donate TV sets and GOtv decoders to local schools, along with GOtv subscriptions. This initiative empowers learners with access to LearnOnOne’s supplementary video lessons during afternoon school hours, benefiting both day scholars and hostel residents.

    In Tanzania, MultiChoice teamed up with Kids Finance to organize a youth financial literacy and digital skills bootcamp, equipping young Tanzanians with essential knowledge for navigating the modern world.

    As “Africa’s most-loved storyteller,” MultiChoice is committed to using its most powerful tool—its ability to tell authentic African stories—to inspire young minds and support their learning, literacy, and personal growth. It’s an exciting way to make a powerful impact.

  • NCDMB, NLNG Commission Galvanising Plant for Train 7 Project, Reaffirm Commitment to Nigerian Content

    NCDMB, NLNG Commission Galvanising Plant for Train 7 Project, Reaffirm Commitment to Nigerian Content

    The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe (FNSE), on Friday, commissioned the 10,000 Tons per annum galvanising plant constructed by Daewoo Engineering Nigeria Limited, one of the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractors of the Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) Train 7 Project.

    Engr. Ogbe commissioned the plant, at Abam-ama, Okrika, Rivers State, alongside the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NLNG, Dr. Philip Mshelbila, who was represented by Mr. Andy Odeh, NLNG’s General Manager, External Relations, and Sustainable Development.

    The galvanising plant is one of the capacity development interventions for the Train 7 project and the establishment is a sequel to NCDMB’s requirement that the execution of major EPC projects in the country must include the development of a legacy investment that will close a critical capacity gap in the oil and gas industry.

    The Executive Secretary lauded NLNG and Daewoo Engineering for responding positively to the Nigerian Content legacy requirement, adding that the commissioning of the hot deep galvanising plant has increased Nigeria’s galvanising capacity to over 180,000 Tons/annum, with similar facilities established by Dorman-long Engineering, Sparkwest steel industries and African Industries Group.

    The facility, he explained, will serve the Nigerian oil and gas industry and linkage sectors, including telecommunications, power and transport sectors that require galvanised materials. The importance of galvanising, he explained, included corrosion protection, the extended service life of steel materials, cost-effectiveness and safety assurances.

    Engr. Ogbe indicated that the galvanising plants and other strategic Nigerian Content investments could enjoy patronage from sister African countries courtesy of the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement protocols, especially if the firms carry out intensive marketing and remain committed to quality standards and competitiveness.

    He confirmed that the domiciliation of key industry capacities is contributing towards the attainment of the 70% Nigerian Content target by 2027 and the realisation of job creation and other economic aspirations of President Bola Tinubu’s Administration.

    In his remarks, the Managing Director of NLNG, Dr. Philip Mshelbila, reiterated the company’s unwavering commitment to achieving its Nigerian Content objectives in its Train 7 Project on Bonny Island.

    According to Dr. Mshelbila, the protection of steel for durability was a significant application in the energy sector, bolstering the resilience of equipment against depletion and enhancing operational efficiency, reducing wastage from replacement costs, and prolonging the lifespan of relevant equipment.

    “The visit to the Daewoo Galvanising Plant is a further ‘show and tell’ of our compliance with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act and, our sincere vision of being a globally competitive LNG company helping build a better Nigeria. As we commission this facility, we are not only celebrating the expansion of our industrial capabilities but also reaffirming our unwavering commitment to contributing to the local economy and creating sustainable job opportunities for the local business environment,” he said.

    Dr. Mshelbila reported significant progress in the Train 7 Project reflecting the Company’s commitment to excellence.

    “We are proud to share the development of the Train 7 project, a groundbreaking initiative that sets new standards in the Nigerian oil and gas sector. Train 7 has achieved several notable milestones including the successful completion of key construction phases and the integration of advanced technologies that enhance our operational capabilities. These accomplishments reflect our commitment to delivering substantial economic and social benefits to Nigeria.

    “Our dedication to Nigerian Content is evident in every facet of our operations. From enhancing local capabilities and fostering technological innovation to creating sustainable opportunities for Nigerians, NLNG remains at the forefront of these efforts. We at NLNG are determined to “Go Beyond Compliance” in line with our vision of helping to build a better Nigeria,” he stressed.

    The Executive Secretary took a tour of the plant, alongside other executives of NLNG, NCDMB, Daewoo Construction and key stakeholders of the oil and gas industry.

  • Seplat JV STEP Graduates 358 Teachers in Edo, Delta states

    Seplat JV STEP Graduates 358 Teachers in Edo, Delta states

    …Stakeholders Stress Impact of Education in Nation Building

     The NNPC E&P Limited/ Seplat Energy Joint Venture (JV) has graduated 331 teachers and 27 Chief Inspectors of Education (CIE) at the 2024 edition of the Seplat JV Education Summit and Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP) graduation ceremony for Edo and Delta states.

    The events, held in Benin City, are hinged on the Joint Venture’s continued quest to contribute towards the improvement of quality education in the communities and states where Seplat Energy operates, and by extension Nigeria.  Public and private school teachers were beneficiaries of the programme.

    STEP is designed to promote teacher’s creative thinking, provide training on teaching applications for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM), provide leadership and self-improvement training, allow for higher student’s engagement, and offer a well-rounded education for recipients of the programme. For this edition, which is the fourth, a total of 358 teachers graduated from the programme and were presented with requisite certificates.

    The programme is targeted at secondary school teachers in public and private schools in Delta and Edo states, including the communities where Seplat Energy operates. It is a six-month intensive training programme which kicks off with a four-day residential workshop aimed to provide leadership and self-improvement training, training on STEAM modules and its application to teaching. The teachers are also provided with STEAM gadgets and Apps to support their delivery of quality teaching in their schools.

    In his remarks, Mr. Samson Ezugworie, Chief Operating Officer, Seplat Energy Plc, lauded the governments of Edo and Delta states, and the NNPC for earnestly working with the management of Seplat Energy to drive the STEP initiative.

    The commitment, he said, showed that the organisations recognised the problem facing the education sector and the need to confront it head-on. “The country’s education system today is not where it should be, and we understand its pivotal role in development. If the youths of this country are not developed, there’s a problem. This shared drive among Seplat, our senior partners, and the state governments in the areas we operate is what propels us forward,” Ezugworie explained.

    He added: “To the teachers in the room, you shape individuals, and you should take pride in your work. I’m sure your teachers would also be proud to see you, knowing you were once their student, bringing them a sense of satisfaction. Always remember that wisdom is the key.”

    Mrs. Chioma Afe, Director, External Affairs and Social Performance, explained that the education value chain plays a crucial role in shaping the workforce and fostering economic development.

    Addressing the challenges within the education value chain, especially in the areas where Seplat and NNPC operate, as well as across the nation, Afe said: “At the foundation of the education value chain lie primary and secondary education, crucial for laying the groundwork for future learning. However, access to quality early education, especially in rural areas, remains a challenge. This affects children’s ability to proceed to higher education or enter the workforce.

    “Despite efforts to increase access to quality education, disparities in resources persist across different regions, particularly in secondary education. Higher education institutions play a critical role in shaping the workforce through specialised training and skills development, but they face challenges such as limited funding and outdated curricula.”

    According to her, education disparities among socioeconomic groups hinder inclusive growth and poverty reduction efforts, emphasizing the need for uniformity in resource allocation and quality improvement.

    “Addressing challenges within the education value chain is crucial for workforce development and socioeconomic growth in Nigeria. Our collective efforts are vital in building a skilled and productive workforce that can drive the nation’s growth and development in the years to come,” Afe added.

    Ayodele Olatunde, MD Seplat West Ltd, Seplat Energy, earlier in his welcome address, said the programme stands as a beacon of our unwavering commitment to championing and empowering educators in their noble quest for excellence. Olatunde who was represented by the Base Manager, Western Asset, Mr. Emmanuel Otokhine, said the collective mission of the NEPL/Seplat JV is to equip teachers with the tools, knowledge, and resources essential for thriving in today’s dynamic educational landscape while leaving an indelible mark on the lives of their students.

    Dr. Joan Ovaiwe, the Edo Commissioner for Education thanked Seplat JV and NEPL for supporting teachers in Edo and Delta, noting that under the leadership of Governor Godwin Obaseki, Edo have been focused on education reform for the past seven years through the Edo Best framework.

    The Keynote speaker, Akin-Olusoji Akinyele, the Group Managing Director, NewGlobe said there is a compelling evidence that improved quality of education would produce a more educated and skilled labour force.

    Speaking on the theme ‘Transforming the Education Workforce: A Critical Success Factor for Nation Building, Akinyele said improved education system would accelerate the growth in GDP each year by 0.5% at the minimum.

    According to him, transforming the education workforce requires a holistic and collaborative approach, adding that it is a complex and multifaceted process that involves various stakeholders, strategic planning, and sustained efforts.

    “The Seplat example and the EdoBEST example are replicable and scalable models of private sector and public sector interventions. To achieve them at national scale requires comprehensive needs assessment to identify the strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in the current education workforce. This involves analyzing teacher skills, professional development opportunities, and the alignment of the workforce with the evolving needs of learners and society,” he said.

    The MD, NEPL, Nicolas Foucart, represented by Mr. Uzoma Ezulu, DM Operations Mgt, Seplat, NEPL, said: “On behalf of the management of NEPL, I appreciate Seplat Energy. They have been the operator of choice. We see their commitment to development at work, at play, and in society. I am proud to say that I am part of this team. If only other operators would do the same thing Seplat is doing, I am sure a lot of the education-related problems we are having currently in the country would not exist.”

    The overall outstanding teacher from the programme, Francis Edeki, said: “I am so much grateful to Seplat for what they have done especially in this programme. I also believe that every teacher here are also delighted that they are part of this programme. It is indeed a rare opportunity; and now I can tell you I am empowered.”

    Other benefiting teachers, Beauty Atsenuwa and Flora Ehimen, said the STEAM and leadership knowledge acquired from the programme would go a long way to impact the lives of their students whilst propelling them for excellence.  

    Atsenuwa said: “If we were to pay for this, 99.9% of teachers here will not be able to afford this. Seplat and its senior partners have given us an opportunity that is rare, and we can’t thank them enough.”

  • Falcon Corporation Limited secured N19.41 Billion Debt Facility from Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund for constructing 10,000MT LPG Storage Facility and Dedicated Jetty in Rivers State

    Falcon Corporation Limited secured N19.41 Billion Debt Facility from Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund for constructing 10,000MT LPG Storage Facility and Dedicated Jetty in Rivers State

    Falcon Corporation Limited (“Falcon” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the successful closing of a N19.41 billion facility from the Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund (NIDF). The proceeds of the loan are earmarked for the development of a state-of-the-art 15,000 metric ton Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) storage facility and a dedicated jetty situated in Rumuolumeni, Saipem/Aker Base Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria (the “Project”).

    The Project, which has reached an advance stage, is being carried out in two (2) distinct phases, with the initial phase focusing on the construction of a 10,000 metric ton spherical tank (consisting of 2 tanks, each with a capacity of 5,000 metric tons), a dedicated jetty and other associated infrastructure, which is to be followed by the development of an additional 5,000 metric tons of storage at a later date.

    According to the Managing Director of the Company, Prof. Joe Ezigbo, “At Falcon, we consider our investments in the Gas industry as a national service first. This is why over the past almost thirty years, we have continued to expand our footprints within the industry, despite the various environmental challenges. Gas development is our contribution to nation building and we remain unrelenting in this regard. We positioned our LPG facility strategically in proximity to major Gas sources and navigable water routes. The Project is set to facilitate and enhance more direct procurement and distribution of LPG, which will dramatically lower conventional delivery and storage costs. Beyond economic gains, we anticipate significant social benefits including job creation, income growth, health improvements, and environmental sustainability as our customers and communities transition to cleaner fuel options on a larger scale.”

    The Deputy Managing Director and Co-Founder of Falcon, Mrs. Audrey Joe-Ezigbo, emphasized that “As a progressive company, deeply committed to the growth and advancement of Nigeria’s domestic Gas industry, we are expanding our investments across the Gas industry value chain, from our traditional role in the downstream sector, to our current midstream investments, and positioning for an intended upstream play. We are fully aligned with the nations aspirations to leverage gas for industrialization, and our primary energy transition fuel, with the strong focus on its use for power and cooking. LPG’s characteristics, such as portability, high energy value, low emissions, and reduced carbon footprint, make it an ideal choice for cooking and other industrial uses. The Project aims to ensure the availability of LPG and deepen its market penetration and adoption within the catchment areas, contributing to the mitigation of ecosystem damage and greenhouse emissions caused by use of other traditional fuels.”

    As stated by Mr. Bolaji Balogun, the Chief Executive Officer of Chapel Hill Denham, “Chapel Hill Denham is pleased to support the integrated LPG infrastructure in Rivers State as this will not only increase domestic LPG consumption but also help in achieving one of the critical sustainable development goals aimed at reducing carbon emissions, air pollution, and habitat loss resulting from the use of firewood for cooking by more than 30 million households. The Project is also in line with the Federal Government of Nigeria’s objective of increasing the adoption of LPG as auto fuel and a replacement of diesel for power generation.”

    Funded by debt obtained from NIDF and the Bank of Industry (BOI), coupled with internally generated funds, the Project has now hit a number of critical milestones, with a recorded completion rate of 65% as at October 2023. The progress achieved encompasses various phases of development, including completion of the jetty and substantial advancements in shoreline protection, as well as various engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) activities and installations. The Project is expected to be completed and commissioned by Q4 2024.

    Nelson Walter, Falcon’s General Manager, Finance, in addressing the choice of debt provider, stated, “NIDF is renowned for providing debt financing with reasonable terms for impactful infrastructure projects. They have shown a depth of understanding of the imperatives for project success and offered a flexible long-term loan repayment structure for Falcon in alignment with this. We are extremely delighted to have partnered with NIDF on this groundbreaking Project. “

    Vetiva Capital Management Limited and Chapel Hill Denham Advisory acted as the Financial Adviser on the transaction, while Detail Commercial Solicitors provided legal counsel.

  • Lagos Free Zone wins Industrial Champion Category at the Global Free Zones of the Year 2023 Awards

    Lagos Free Zone wins Industrial Champion Category at the Global Free Zones of the Year 2023 Awards

    Lagos Free Zone (LFZ), the first deep seaport-based private free trade zone in Nigeria has won the Industrial Champion category of the Global Free Zones of the Year 2023 awards by the fDi Intelligence, a service from the Financial Times. The fDi Intelligence monitors global greenfield foreign direct investments across sectors.

    The award is in recognition of the leading industrial ecosystem provided by LFZ as a Special Economic Zone for manufacturing in Africa. According to the special report released by fDi Intelligence recognizing the world’s best free zones for FDI, LFZ was recognized as the inaugural winner of Africa’s industrial champions category on account of its integration with a deep sea port that receives container vessels from around the world, creating new opportunities for manufacturers looking to export their goods.

    “When it comes to staffing projects, manufacturers benefit from the company’s community jobs portal and a future training hub, which is dedicated to vocational skills that align with its priority sectors of food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, engineering, paper, chemicals and non-metallic minerals.” it stated.

    Dr Olufemi Ogunyemi, Managing Director at the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority, said, “We are deeply excited about this development and congratulate the Lagos Free Zone team for their efforts. This recognition further strengthens NEPZA’s commitment to driving the Renewed Hope agenda with free zones as the cornerstone of our approach to drive investments into the country. We will continue to provide a conducive environment for businesses to thrive and contribute to our nation’s prosperity. We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead”.

    The newly appointed CEO of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, Aisha Rimi, congratulated Lagos Free Zone and said “We are glad to see investment hubs like the Lagos Free Zone get global recognition and congratulate the team at Lagos Free Zone for being announced the Industrial Champions for the African continent at the Global Free Zones awards this year. We are committed to work constructively with public and private sector players towards the common goal of driving inward investments and contributing to the economic growth of the country.”

    In his remarks, the Chief Executive Officer, Lagos Free Zone, Dinesh Rathi described the award as a testament to the commitment of the promoters to attract global manufacturers by providing a world-class industrial ecosystem and thereby create employment opportunities for Nigerians.

    Rathi noted that the company is extremely delighted at the recognition and would continue to take giant steps that would attract both local and foreign investments in the manufacturing sector.

    “At Lagos Free Zone, we make it possible for businesses to make “Make in Nigeria for Africa” by providing a world-class industrial ecosystem integrated with Lekki Port, Nigeria’s most modern and deepest seaport. We invite global and local manufacturers to unlock hassle-free growth in West Africa and beyond through this ecosystem. We humbly dedicate this prominent recognition to all Nigerians,” he said.

  • Seplat Energy Empowers 350 Teachers Through STEP CSR Initiative

    Seplat Energy Empowers 350 Teachers Through STEP CSR Initiative

    The Seplat Energy/NNPC E&P Limited Joint Venture (JV) has kicked off the 2023 edition of its Seplat Teachers’ Empowerment Programme (STEP) for teachers in Edo and Delta states. The programme is hinged on the JV’s continued quest to contribute towards the improvement of quality education in host communities and states, and by extension Nigeria.

    STEP is designed to promote teacher’s creative thinking, provide training on teaching applications for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM), provide leadership and self-improvement training, allow for higher student’s engagement, and offer a well-rounded education for recipients of the programme. For this edition, 350 teachers have been listed for the programme.

    The programme is targeted at secondary school teachers in public and private schools in Delta & Edo states, including the company’s host communities. During the programme, the teachers undergo 5 months of training, facilitated by a technology-based platform and gadgets provided by Seplat Energy.

    In her opening remark, the Director of External Affairs & Sustainability, Seplat Energy Plc, Chioma Afe, noted that, “It is interesting that we are not just doing something for students, we are also doing something for schools and for the teachers. We are looking at the entire education ecosystem, working with the relevant state ministries and with our partners, the NEPL, to see how we can really impact every single part of that ecosystem and I think that’s an amazing thing.”

    The Edo State Commissioner for Education Dr. Joan Oviawe, represented by the Functioning Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Education, Mrs. Ero Ugiagbe, expressed her heartfelt appreciation to Seplat Energy and its partners for their exceptional dedication to education, exemplified, not only through the Seplat Teachers’ Empowerment Programme, but also through their remarkable commitment to the development of schools in the states.

    The Honourable Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Delta State, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, represented by the Director (Schools) Delta State Ministry of Education, Mrs. Winifred Ighavbota, commended the efforts of the NEPL/Seplat JV, saying “For several years, the JV had upheld this Corporate Social Responsibility in the education sector in Edo and Delta states, being their host states. There is no doubt that these efforts and commitment to this noble project have contributed immensely in enhancing and sustaining the quality of education in both states.”

    Expressing joy and fulfilment, one of the participants, Atsenuwa Beauty noted that “As teachers, we have been empowered and enlightened to see new innovative ways of doing the business of building destinies. I want to appreciate Seplat JV because it is one thing to have an idea and another thing to execute it and execute it well. That’s why we are seeing the magnitude of success being experienced here today and so, we are thankful.

    Another participant, Awaritakpor Precious, also noted that, “Growing up, we were meant to understand that the teachers’ reward is in heaven. But Seplat is saying ‘No’, that the heaven is here. This is teachers’ heaven, courtesy of Seplat.”

    Mr. Owunari Levi, Community Adviser, Western Asset who represented the Managing Director NEPL said, “To our wonderful partners in this journey of giving back to society (Seplat Energy), I want to say what you are doing has given us opportunity to operate better, reason being that we have just got another Freedom to Operate in Delta and Edo States.”

    The STEP programme is designed to train secondary school teachers on skills, innovations, and technologies for deploying STEAM to deliver tutelage better to the students; provide and connect teachers to a collection of STEAM resources to enable them to understand, apply and innovate, as well as provide schools with resources to enable them to provide the right environment for STEAM implementation to enable students engage in the interdisciplinary nature of STEAM.

  • Matthieu BOUYER appointed Managing Director/Chief Executive of TotalEnergies Upstream Companies in Nigeria

    Matthieu BOUYER appointed Managing Director/Chief Executive of TotalEnergies Upstream Companies in Nigeria

    Mr. Matthieu BOUYER has been appointed the Managing Director/Chief Executive of TotalEnergies Upstream Companies in Nigeria and representative of TotalEnergies Company in Nigeria effective August 21, 2023.

    A graduate of the engineering school Centrale Nantes in France, Matthieu BOUYER joined Total in 2005 through the Exploration & Production Facilities Engineer program.  He held various high-level positions in Operations, Field Development, Engineering, Project Management in Africa, Asia, France, and the Middle East.

    In 2015, Matthieu worked at the headquarters of the Company as a Strategy Analyst on key long-term and transformational topics for the Company business.

    He then moved to London in 2017 within the Investor Relations Entity where he supported the Executive Committee in building relations with shareholders and monitoring the performance of TotalEnergies in the financial market. 

    In October 2020, Matthieu became the Managing Director of TotalEnergies EP Qatar and Country Chair in Qatar, a position during which he contributed to the fast and multi-energy development of TotalEnergies in the country. He is now appointed Managing Director of the upstream business and TotalEnergies representative in Nigeria.

  • GE Vernova Empowers 100 Girls in Nigeria through ‘Girls in STEM’ to Inspire Careers, Bridge Gender Gap

    GE Vernova Empowers 100 Girls in Nigeria through ‘Girls in STEM’ to Inspire Careers, Bridge Gender Gap

    …the event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, was held in commemoration of the International Day for Women in Engineering, and featured educative panel discussions on leadership

    GE Vernova’s Gas Power business and Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) recently hosted a ‘Girls in STEM’ event to inspire 100 secondary school girls and bridge the gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers to prepare the next generation of women engineers and innovators. The event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, was held in commemoration of the International Day for Women in Engineering, and featured educative panel discussions on leadership, exploring different STEM careers and mentorship.

    The aim of the Girls in STEM program is to encourage girls to choose careers in STEM, expose them to a network of female role models and organize experiential and discovery sessions to provide an immersive experience into potential careers they can explore in STEM. The program was organized in collaboration with GE Vernova’s Gas Power customers; Nigeria National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Exploration & Production Limited, First Independent Power Limited (FIPL) and TransAfam Power Limited (Transafam). The participants who were drawn from five schools across the city of Port Harcourt, visited the power plants to experience potential careers in STEM.   

    According to UNESCO’s Institute of Statistics (UIS) data less than 30% of the world’s researchers are women with low representation in the public, private and academic sectors. Speaking at the event, Kenneth Oyakhire, Services Executive for GE Vernova’s Gas Power business in Sub-Saharan Africa, said, “It is important to delve beyond surface-level issues and identify the underlying factors that discourage girls from pursuing careers in STEM. We are dedicated to showcasing a wide range of opportunities available through our Girls in STEM initiatives, therefore paving the way for a future of high-quality careers in engineering, manufacturing, IT, and product management roles.”  

    Foluso Gbadamosi, Executive Director of Junior Achievement Nigeria, emphasized the significance of commemorating this day, stating that there is no better time than now to expose young girls to the possibilities of a career in STEM. She highlighted the importance of equipping them with the right mindset and showcasing the opportunities available to pursue their dreams. Gbadamosi stressed the benefits of stimulating their interest and launching their STEM careers, not only for their economic future but also for building thriving communities.

    She also underscored Junior Achievement Nigeria’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in the areas of quality education, gender equality, reduced inequalities, and partnership for the goals. Gbadamosi expressed appreciation for GE Vernova’s Gas Power business for its commitment towards the STEM program.  

    One of the beneficiaries of the corporate social responsibility activity thanked GE Vernova’s Gas Power business and JAN for giving girls the necessary exposure to guide them through their career choices. “The Girls in STEM programme has opened my eyes to see that nothing should stop me as a girl from pursuing a career in STEM. Seeing and hearing from successful women professionals in the male-dominated careers has encouraged us to explore opportunities in STEM, believing that we can be successful,” she added.  

    GE Vernova’s Gas Power business believes that the commercial imperative, coupled with the ongoing challenges of recruiting and retaining top female talent in STEM jobs, means organizations must make continued, real investment in closing the gender gap. Gas Power business at GE Vernova will also continue to benchmark, explore, and implement employee programs and benefits that foster a fair and inclusive culture where all employees can thrive.

  • Qualcomm Announces Shortlisted Teams for the Inaugural Qualcomm® Make in Africa Mentorship Program

    Qualcomm Announces Shortlisted Teams for the Inaugural Qualcomm® Make in Africa Mentorship Program

    …10 startup companies will enter a 7-month equity-free mentorship program

    Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. has announced the selection of 10 startups to participate in the inaugural Qualcomm Make in Africa startup mentorship program, as part of the Qualcomm Africa Innovation Platform announced in December 2022. These startups are developing innovative products in clean energy, agricultural technology, computing for education, geospatial predictive analysis, medical technologies, and innovations utilizing electric vehicles. Several startups also feature women in prominent leadership roles.

    The startups, based in Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Ghana, and Rwanda, were selected from a pool of 550+ applicants from 34 African countries. They were carefully selected by a global jury based on a variety of qualifications including technical capabilities, business factors, and potential for innovation and intellectual property generation. The Qualcomm Make In Africa startups will receive equity-free mentorship in business planning, engineering, intellectual property protection, and the application of advanced connectivity, sensing, AI/ML and other processing technologies for innovative end-to-end systems solutions. The program is the first of its kind in Africa and is designed to add to the continued growth of the continent’s technology startup ecosystem.

    The shortlisted companies and their technology solutions are (sorted by alphabetical order):

    • Ecorich Solutions – patented organic composting in Kenya
    • Fixbot – Vehicle diagnostics and inspection via OBD dongle in Nigeria
    • Karaa – e-Bike tracking, charging, retrofit, and rentals in Uganda
    • Maotronics Systems Limited – IOT-enabled precision agriculture in Nigeria
    • Microfuse – Affordable plugin computers for the education sector in Uganda
    • Neural Labs Africa Ltd – Deep learning and computer vision for healthcare diagnosis in Kenya and Senegal
    • OneTouch Diagnostics – Diabetes patch and monitoring system in Nigeria
    • QuadLoop – Leveraging e-waste for solar e-Lanterns and battery storage in Nigeria.
    • SLS Energy – Recycled lead-cell battery storage banks in Rwanda
    • SolarTaxi – Electric vehicle (EV) taxi and fleet management in Ghana

    Announced in December 2022, Qualcomm Make in Africa will provide 1:1 mentorship for the shortlisted companies with Qualcomm leaders on a regular cadence to guide startups to product realization, as well as provide masterclasses on product management, pitch clinic, IPR, and hardware architecture. The program will culminate in a finale demo day in December 2023, connecting startups with various industry leaders, venture capitalists, investors, and other accelerators.

    “I’d like to applaud and congratulate these 10 startups for their innovative solutions,” said Sudeepto Roy, Vice President, Engineering, Qualcomm Incorporated. “I am beyond excited to hear about their respective problem domains and innovative solutions. They have applied their talents and ingenuity to address Africa’s present-day needs in areas of reliable access to clean energy, precision agriculture to conserve water and other resources, adaptations of electric transportation for many last-mile needs, using AI and other innovations for accelerating disease pathology and treatment, and addressing energy efficient, affordable computing for the education market. Over the next few months, we will mentor them in areas of business development, technology applications and intellectual property law. We are honored to be able to participate in their entrepreneurial journey and their future impact in Africa.”

    “As part of our new Africa Innovation Platform, the Qualcomm Make in Africa mentorship program is one of many initiatives we are working on in close collaboration with government and industry stakeholders in Africa, to help position African entrepreneurs and researchers to service markets throughout the continent and realize their global ambitions. We believe that startups based in Africa are best placed  to identify uniquely African problems that can be solved through end-to-end systems solutions and new business models,” said Elizabeth Migwalla, Vice President and Head of Government Affairs (Middle East and Africa), Qualcomm International, Inc. “We congratulate the shortlisted companies and look forward to a fruitful collaboration for innovation in the coming months.”

  • Applications Now Open for the Nigerian University of Technology and Management Scholars Program (NSP) Class of 2022 – 2023

    Applications Now Open for the Nigerian University of Technology and Management Scholars Program (NSP) Class of 2022 – 2023

    The proposed Nigerian University of Technology and Management (NUTM) is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the NUTM Scholars Program Class of 2022 – 2023.

    The NSP – Flagship Program of NUTM – is a one-year, full-time interdisciplinary postgraduate program in Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Design. The program exposes Scholars to an immersive education experience delivered by world-class faculty from Ivy League and Russel Group Universities, and accomplished industry professionals.

    As the nation’s pioneering higher education institution focused on nurturing leaders for Nigeria and Africa, the institution plans to offer academic and research offerings in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM), and Management at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels.

    Through NUTM and the NSP, young Africans learn and explore principles in leadership, design thinking, business, and mindset. “Our students will be the center of NUTM’s focus. Equipping them with globally competitive skills and orientation, is at the heart of NUTM’s vision. We will continue to attract brilliant students and world-class faculty and provide cutting edge learning facilities, environment, and opportunities. Thus, enabling our students to excel and become entrepreneurs, and the go-to-pool for high-performing employees.“ said Founding President, NUTM – Dr. Babs Omotowa.

    The NSP courses are built on six foundational tracks, geared towards preparing Scholars with the necessary tools to solve real-world challenges. These six tracks are Technology, Entrepreneurship and Design, Management, Leadership, Perspectives, and Critical Thinking and Communication. The program includes experiential learning components such as ‘TEDLab’ and ‘Shadow-a-Leader’, where Scholars are directly mentored by top executives in Africa and beyond.

    NSP provides its scholars with ample opportunities to enhance their professional networks, develop analytical and logical reasoning skills as well as expand their depth in various domains of study. 84% of NSP alumni are engaged across various industries including Africa’s leading tech firms such as Paystack, Mono, and Future Africa. The average annual salary of NUTM Alumni also saw a whopping 230% increment. NSP graduates are making an impact and thriving in entrepreneurial careers. Five ventures created through NSP’s TEDLab have already launched products and have collectively raised about $225,000 in funding in less than one year. MyStash, one of the ventures, has accumulated over 12,000+ users.

    The NSP is open to applicants who have minimum of a Bachelor’s degree, who are proficient in written and spoken English and are no more than 35 years of age as at the date of application. In addition, applicants must display a high level of intellectual curiosity, leadership capabilities, and a strong passion for becoming a change agent in Africa, for Africa.

    Applications opened on May 4, 2022, and offers will roll out between June 20 & September 15, 2022.

    For further information, please contact nsp.admissions@nutmng.org. 

  • Dr. Babs J. Omotowa appointed NUTM Founding President

    Dr. Babs J. Omotowa appointed NUTM Founding President

    The proposed Nigerian University of Technology & Management (NUTM) is pleased to announce the appointment of Babs Jolayemi Omotowa (Dr) as its Founding President, effective April 25, 2022.

    Babs is a renowned global leader with more than 25 years of experience in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Norway, and Nigeria, where he has held several senior executive positions. He was born into a family of educators and is a former Global President of the UK Institute of Procurement and Supply in London. He is a seasoned professional in the upstream and midstream oil and gas industry. He brings an industry background to the office of the NUTM President that is patterned after many highly ranked universities around the world that are broadening their horizon by appointing accomplished business leaders as their presidents.

    Prior to joining NUTM, Babs was CEO/MD of Nigeria LNG Limited, where he led NLNG to become the highest corporate tax-paying organization in Sub-Saharan Africa and earned record revenues ($40Bn during tenure). He was instrumental in the provision of $12Mn engineering laboratory support for six universities in Nigeria and N60Bn support to the FGN towards the construction of the Bonny-Bodo Road. He also led the Shell upstream energy transition strategy, and delivered a 25% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions towards the company’s climate change ambitions.

    As President of NUTM, Babs will be responsible for strategy execution and establishing NUTM as the leading higher learning institution in Africa that is focused on technology and management. Making the announcement, the Chairman, Governing Board, NUTM, Dr. Okechukwu Enelemah, said:

    “After two successful cohorts of our pilot initiative, the NUTM Scholars Program (NSP), we are delighted to consolidate our commitment to delivering our mission with this appointment.”

    Babs’ appointment represents a significant milestone in NUTM’s journey. The institution’s mission of delivering higher education excellence and nurturing of innovative and entrepreneurial leaders to create impact in Africa, will be enabled by his transformative leadership and core values of integrity, excellence, courage, and social responsibility.

    The Nigerian University of Technology and Management (NUTM) is a pioneering higher education initiative to identify and train the next generation of leaders in technology and management for Africa. NUTM will strive for excellence in technology and management and become a hub for best-in-class learning and research.

    It will focus on areas in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Management in its academic offerings at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. NUTM aspires to be among the top five universities in Africa and the best in Nigeria in the next ten years.

  • Feature- Okeho: Great Town, Great and Self-Reliant People but Neglected by Government

    Feature- Okeho: Great Town, Great and Self-Reliant People but Neglected by Government

    by Kayode Awojobi

    We all hail from a particular community either it be the developed, underdeveloped or rural homesteads. There are many factors that determine the fate of a location either it would thrive or not. But as fate would have it, I am proud to say it anywhere that I was born of Okeho parentage, this is not the end of my joy, the strides of my kinsmen within and outside the country give me great assurance that I am also heading somewhere. We all have a choice to affect our world positively without being affected by our background or whatsoever limitation that abound. I’ve read extensively about many people that hail from Okeho and I’ve been inspired and motivated by their lives. There is no gainsaying that Okeho has produced successful people with various laurels.

    From time immemorial, Okeho the headquarters of Kajola Local Government of Oyo State is renowned for outstanding performances in all facets of life be it academics, creativity, religion, entrepreneurship, leadership, and many others. I can posit that people from Okeho are excelling in their various fields of endeavors and they’re always extraordinary. We have people from Okeho who have set the pace in Music, Drama, Poetry, Engineering, Art, Writing, Broadcast journalism, Religion, among others. These people have raised the bar amidst their peers and are still setting pace to date.

    Okeho people are well known for their selflessness and self-reliance in whatever they tend to lay their hands. These are people who don’t rely on the government before they get things done. History has it that when the people of Okeho saw the need to help the sons and daughters of Okeho to proceed in their education after the completion of Primary school education, and the government that was supposed to establish schools failed to fulfill its promise to establish a secondary school, the forefathers came together and seriously work towards establishing a secondary school of their own in the region. To this cause, the popularly known Okeho/Iganna Grammar School, Okeho, was established due to the unwavering commitments of our forefathers who are endowed with dauntless courage that they can get things done and this helps them in achieving this remarkable feat. Today, the post-primary institution has produced people of timber and calibre across the universe.

    This self-reliance aspect of Okeho didn’t stop with our forefathers, the current generation as well is fostering in the path of their ancestors and this led to their way of life that embodies commitment, love, and unity which was stretched forth when the Oyo State Government announced that the Okeho College of Health Science and Technology would be cited in the community. Someone single-handedly gave out his personal property in order to keep the school in our territory and now the people of Okeho are working assiduously towards making the permanent site of the school ready within a short time.

    Asides from this, the Nation Open University of Nigeria Project is currently ongoing. We are at the final stage of approvals and we keep that by God’s grace. The license will be given to us to run a centre that will aid the development of the academic environment of our community.

    We should not forget the effort of our youths in curbing the bank robbery and also worthy of note is their protest again Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company. The inert and imbibed lifestyle of cohesion and working together made electricity restored to the town within few hours. These are just some examples of how great and resilient Okeho people are.

    Equally, the youths recently mobilized themselves and took to rehabilitate the township roads within the town. The call on the government to rehabilitate and help reconstruct our roads had always fallen on deaf ears. Worthy of mention is the Okeho-Iganna road that has been washed away by erosion amongst many other roads. The youths filled many gullies on the roads, some of the roads are Gbonje- Isale Alubo road; Ajelanwa-Imalefalafia road; Sharp Corner- Sir Water road and within Gbonje market.

    Okeho indigenes should not seat down and relax based on the precedents of the past; we all should stir up our passion for our homeland by investing more into our source. Just like the refrain of the song of Musiliu Haruna Isola, ‘no one who stays aloof from his homestead will ever be able to repair his father’s house.’ Okeho is a great town, that needs international attention, It is a very saddening situation that the government has forgotten this community and it is the citizens that keep striving to add value to their homestead.

    Okeho is where we belong, and our inputs must be felt in the nooks and crannies of the town. I believe we have what it takes, we are true descendants of Olofin, and I know in years to come, Okeho shall surely be a region in the entire world that will always be appreciated for cultural heritage, outstanding potentials, tourist centres, and many others.  Let’s continue to commit our concern to various sectors within the town to workability and result-oriented radical development and growth that in a short time proceeds our town to the rightful position we’ve always desired.

    Come to Okeho and experience the gathering of great people across the world. A town situated on the hill that can’t be shaken, we are more than conquerors, we have conquered the Fulanis, Dahomey and Alimi invaders and recently, the armed robbers. We have continually lived together in peace and harmony with our undaunted spirit but we desperately need to fill the government’s presence in all spheres.

    Kayode M. Awojobi is a journalist and public affairs commentator