Stakeholders commend NCDMB on Local Content growth initiatives
Sopuruchi Onwuka
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board received strong commendations from government leaders, lawmakers, and industry figures as it unveiled a fresh set of initiatives, accomplished tasks and confirmation that Nigerian Content has reached 61 percent in the third quarter of 2025.
Executive Secretary Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe made the announcements at the 14th Practical Nigerian Content Forum, where the Board’s progress drew praise from several high-level stakeholders.
Hon. Boma Goodhead, Chair of the House of Representatives Committee on Local Content, applauded the Board for sustaining the forum and providing steady guidance toward meeting the goals of the NOGICD Act. She described the Board’s performance as a key driver of industry stability.
The Senate Committee on Local Content also acknowledged the Board’s work. Chairman Senator Joel Thomas flagged concerns over companies that have not met their statutory remittances but maintained that NCDMB has remained a strong influence in promoting adherence to local content obligations.
Ministers echoed this recognition. The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, said the theme of the forum aligns with Nigeria’s national priorities and credited the Board’s interventions for supporting investment, strengthening local capacity, and improving transparency in the sector.
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, expressed satisfaction with the industry resurgence following years of stagnation. He linked renewed investor confidence and increased rig activity to the regulatory consistency the Board helps uphold.
The Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, praised the Board’s role in pushing Nigeria toward deeper value creation and stronger local capacity across energy value chains. He noted that NCDMB’s efforts align with the country’s broader shift from import dependence to production strength.
Further commendation came from the Managing Director of the Bank of Industry, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, who described the expanded partnership with NCDMB as a major step forward. He said the new $100 million Equity Investment Fund will help high-potential Nigerian companies grow and create value. He credited the Board with driving policies that attract long-term risk capital.
The Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Mrs. Olu A. Verheijen, added her voice, praising NCDMB for initiative that “accelerates change, drives competitiveness, and pushes the industry toward global standards.”
She highlighted the Board’s role in enabling indigenous operators to acquire onshore assets, proof that policy, ambition, and capability are now aligned.
Across the forum, speakers tied industry progress to NCDMB’s steady leadership, expanding programs, and clear commitment to strengthening Nigerian participation in the oil and gas sector.
