In a significant move to recognize outstanding contributions to human capacity development in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, the Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria (OGTAN) has announced plans to honor key industry players, including the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited, and other prominent figures at its 4th Annual Human Capacity Development (HCD) Awards. Scheduled for September 12, 2025, at the prestigious MUSON Centre in Onikan, Lagos, the event promises to be a landmark celebration of excellence, innovation, and leadership in the energy industry. This article delves into the details of the upcoming awards, the significance of OGTAN’s efforts, the honorees, and the broader implications for Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, with a focus on fostering local content and sustainable development.
Background: OGTAN’s Role in Nigeria’s Energy Sector
The Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria (OGTAN) is a pivotal organization dedicated to enhancing local human capacity development within Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. Established to standardize and certify training bodies, curricula, and delivery methods, OGTAN plays a critical role in ensuring that the sector’s workforce is equipped with the requisite skills to meet global standards. With a network of over 400 member organizations and more than 2,000 training programs across the oil, gas, and energy value chain, OGTAN has become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s efforts to build a skilled and competitive workforce.
The association’s mission is to interface with industry stakeholders, regulators, operators, and academia to foster knowledge transfer, promote local content, and drive sustainable growth. By recognizing and honoring institutions and individuals who exemplify excellence in training and capacity building, OGTAN’s HCD Awards serve as a platform to highlight the transformative impact of human capital development on Nigeria’s energy sector. The 2025 awards, the fourth edition of this prestigious event, underscore OGTAN’s commitment to celebrating those who are shaping the future of the industry through innovation, leadership, and dedication.
The 2025 OGTAN HCD Awards: A Celebration of Excellence
The 2025 OGTAN Human Capacity Development Awards, set to take place on September 12, 2025, at the MUSON Centre in Lagos, are designed to recognize organizations and individuals who have made significant contributions to workforce development, training, and local content initiatives in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. The event, which is expected to attract industry leaders, regulators, and stakeholders, will serve as both a celebration of past achievements and a call to action for further progress in human capacity development.
OGTAN President Chris Osarumwense emphasized the importance of the awards in amplifying the need for skill development in the petroleum industry. In a statement, he noted that the event highlights the critical role of training in strengthening operating companies, service providers, and government institutions as Nigeria’s oil and gas sector continues to evolve. “The OGTAN HCD Awards are a testament to our commitment to recognizing institutions and individuals who drive excellence in training, knowledge transfer, and local content development,” Osarumwense said.
The awards ceremony will feature a range of categories, each designed to honor specific contributions to the industry. The recipients, carefully selected based on their impact and alignment with OGTAN’s mission, include a mix of corporate entities, government agencies, and individual leaders who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing Nigeria’s energy sector.
2025 Award Recipients: A Diverse Group of Industry Champions
The 2025 OGTAN HCD Awards will honor a distinguished group of organizations and individuals who have made significant strides in human capacity development. The recipients, as announced by OGTAN, reflect the highest standards of performance, leadership, and innovation in the oil and gas sector. Below is a detailed overview of the awardees and their contributions:
Excellence in Oil and Gas Training Award: Petroleum Training Institute (PTI)
The Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), a leading institution for technical education in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, will receive the Excellence in Oil and Gas Training Award. PTI has been instrumental in providing high-quality training programs that align with industry needs, producing skilled professionals who contribute to the sector’s growth. The institute’s curriculum, which emphasizes practical skills and industry-relevant certifications, has made it a cornerstone of workforce development in Nigeria.
Best Corporate Training Partner: Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG)
Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) will be recognized as the Best Corporate Training Partner for its consistent investment in workforce development and support for OGTAN’s initiatives. NLNG’s commitment to training and capacity building has strengthened the industry’s human capital, with programs that enhance technical expertise and promote local content. The company’s partnerships with training providers and its focus on youth development have set a benchmark for corporate responsibility in the sector.
Lifetime Achievement in Capacity Building: Dr. Ernest Nwapa
Dr. Ernest Nwapa, the pioneer Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement in Capacity Building Award. Nwapa’s visionary leadership in establishing the NCDMB and championing local content policies has had a transformative impact on Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. His efforts to promote indigenous participation and develop local expertise have left a lasting legacy, making him a fitting recipient of this prestigious award.
Government Partner of the Year: Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB)
The NCDMB will receive the Government Partner of the Year Award for its unwavering support for training and local content development. As the agency responsible for enforcing the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act, the NCDMB has played a pivotal role in ensuring that Nigerian companies and professionals benefit from opportunities in the sector. Its initiatives, such as the Nigerian Content Human Capacity Development Fund, have empowered countless professionals and institutions.
OGTAN Affiliate of the Year: Pana Holdings Limited and Oilserv Limited
Pana Holdings Limited and Oilserv Limited will share the OGTAN Affiliate of the Year Award for their strategic engagement with OGTAN and their advocacy for human capacity development. Both companies have demonstrated a commitment to collaboration, innovation, and the promotion of OGTAN’s objectives, making them vital partners in the association’s mission to enhance local expertise.
Young Professional Development Award: TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited
TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited will be recognized with the Young Professional Development Award for its efforts in training and mentoring young professionals in the oil and gas sector. The company’s initiatives, including internships, mentorship programs, and partnerships with academic institutions, have provided opportunities for youth inclusion and career development, contributing to the industry’s future talent pipeline.
Indigenous HCD Company of the Year: Aradel Holdings PLC and First Exploration & Petroleum Development Company
Aradel Holdings PLC and First Exploration & Petroleum Development Company will each receive the Indigenous HCD Company of the Year Award for their contributions to human capacity development as indigenous operators. Both companies have prioritized local content and workforce training, setting an example for other Nigerian firms in the sector.
Women in Energy Leadership Award: Mrs. Funmi Ogbue
Mrs. Funmi Ogbue, the pioneer President of the Women in Energy Network (WIEN) and Chief Executive Officer of Zigma Energy Group, will be honored with the Women in Energy Leadership Award. Ogbue’s trailblazing efforts in promoting gender inclusion, mentoring women in the energy sector, and advocating for leadership opportunities have made her a role model for aspiring professionals. Her role as Assistant Secretary and Head of Publicity for OGTAN further underscores her commitment to the industry.
Significance of the Awards
The OGTAN HCD Awards are more than just a recognition of individual and corporate achievements; they represent a broader commitment to advancing Nigeria’s oil and gas industry through human capital development. By honoring organizations and individuals who prioritize training, knowledge transfer, and local content, OGTAN is reinforcing the importance of building a skilled and sustainable workforce. This is particularly critical as Nigeria seeks to maximize the benefits of its vast oil and gas resources while transitioning to a more diversified and sustainable energy future.
The awards also highlight the collaborative nature of OGTAN’s work. The event is supported by a range of sponsors, including Diamond Sponsors Oilserv Limited and Wellservices Training Academy, Gold Sponsors Nexus Alliance Limited and Greenfields Consultancy & Allied Services Limited, and Silver Sponsors PM4Success International Limited, Radial Circle Technical Services Limited, and Jake Riley Limited. These partnerships demonstrate the industry’s collective commitment to fostering excellence and innovation in human capacity development.
Broader Context: Human Capacity Development in Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Sector
Nigeria’s oil and gas industry is a cornerstone of the country’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP, export revenues, and government income. However, the sector has historically faced challenges related to limited local participation, skills shortages, and over-reliance on foreign expertise. The introduction of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act in 2010 marked a turning point, as it mandated greater involvement of Nigerian companies and professionals in the sector. Since then, organizations like OGTAN and the NCDMB have been at the forefront of efforts to build local capacity and ensure that Nigerians benefit from the industry’s opportunities.
Human capacity development is critical to achieving these goals. By investing in training, academic partnerships, and professional development, Nigeria can create a workforce capable of competing on a global stage. OGTAN’s work in standardizing training programs, certifying trainers, and fostering collaboration with stakeholders has been instrumental in this regard. The association’s initiatives, such as the Young Professionals Platform (OYP) and the OGTAN Training Workshop, provide practical avenues for skill development and knowledge transfer.
The 2025 HCD Awards also highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion in the industry. The recognition of Mrs. Funmi Ogbue for her contributions to gender inclusion underscores the need to empower women in a traditionally male-dominated sector. Similarly, the focus on young professionals, as exemplified by TotalEnergies’ award, reflects the industry’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders.
Economic and Social Impact
The OGTAN HCD Awards have significant economic and social implications for Nigeria. By celebrating organizations and individuals who invest in training and local content, the awards encourage further investment in human capital, which is essential for economic diversification and job creation. A skilled workforce can attract foreign direct investment, enhance operational efficiency, and reduce the sector’s reliance on expatriate labor.
Socially, the awards promote inclusivity and empowerment. By recognizing women and young professionals, OGTAN is helping to break down barriers and create opportunities for underrepresented groups. The emphasis on local content also ensures that communities across Nigeria benefit from the wealth generated by the oil and gas industry, fostering sustainable development and reducing income inequality.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the OGTAN HCD Awards represent a significant milestone, several challenges must be addressed to sustain the momentum of human capacity development in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. One key challenge is the need for greater investment in training infrastructure, including technical colleges, simulation centers, and digital learning platforms. Many training institutions in Nigeria lack the resources to deliver world-class programs, which can limit the sector’s competitiveness.
Another challenge is the alignment of training programs with industry needs. As the global energy landscape shifts toward renewables and digitalization, Nigeria’s workforce must be equipped with skills in emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and renewable energy systems. OGTAN’s partnerships with international training institutions and universities, as outlined in its strategic agenda, are a step in the right direction.
The awards also present opportunities for further collaboration. By bringing together industry leaders, regulators, and academia, OGTAN can foster innovation and knowledge exchange, creating a more resilient and adaptable workforce. The involvement of sponsors and affiliates in the awards ceremony demonstrates the potential for public-private partnerships to drive human capacity development.
Global Context and Future Outlook
Nigeria’s efforts to enhance human capacity in the oil and gas sector align with global trends in workforce development. Countries like Norway, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates have successfully implemented training and local content policies to maximize the benefits of their energy resources. Nigeria can draw lessons from these models while tailoring its approach to its unique economic and social context.
Looking ahead, the 2025 OGTAN HCD Awards are expected to set a precedent for future initiatives in Nigeria’s energy sector. By recognizing excellence and fostering collaboration, OGTAN is laying the foundation for a more skilled, inclusive, and sustainable industry. The association’s focus on young professionals, women, and indigenous companies will ensure that Nigeria’s oil and gas sector remains competitive and resilient in the face of global energy transitions.
Conclusion
The 2025 OGTAN Human Capacity Development Awards represent a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. By honoring organizations like the NCDMB, TotalEnergies, and individuals like Dr. Ernest Nwapa and Mrs. Funmi Ogbue, OGTAN is celebrating the transformative power of human capital development. The awards not only recognize past achievements but also set a roadmap for the future, emphasizing the importance of training, local content, and inclusivity.
As Nigeria navigates the challenges and opportunities of its energy sector, initiatives like the OGTAN HCD Awards will play a critical role in shaping a skilled and sustainable workforce. With the support of industry stakeholders, regulators, and sponsors, OGTAN is poised to drive Nigeria’s oil and gas industry toward greater heights, ensuring that the country’s vast resources benefit its people and contribute to long-term economic growth.
