NCDMB and Shell Partner to Commission World-Class Geoscience Center at University of Lagos

NCDMB and Shell commission a world-class geoscience center at UNILAG to train 10,000 Nigerians for the energy sector and reduce reliance on foreign expertise.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 20, 2026, 9:47 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Champion News

A Strategic Hub for Energy Education

Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited, alongside its Joint Venture partners and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, officially commissioned a premier geoscience center at the University of Lagos on Friday. This facility serves as a cornerstone of the Nigerian content human capacity development programme, focusing on institutional strengthening within the academic sector. According to Dr. Obinna Ezeobi, the General Manager of Corporate Communications, the initiative is designed to equip universities with the tools necessary to produce the competent technical manpower required for the evolving oil and gas industry.

Strengthening the National Workforce Mandate

Engr. Felix Ogbe, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, emphasized that the development of human capital is the fundamental core of the board’s mandate. He noted that the new center represents a firm commitment to enhancing local capacity, which is essential for maintaining Nigeria’s competitive edge in the global energy market. The agency intends to utilize this facility to train 10,000 young Nigerians in critical industry skills, ensuring they are prepared for upcoming oil and gas projects. According to Ogbe, geosciences are the essential pathway for discovering new energy deposits, making this center vital for national resource security.

The Drive for Homegrown Industrial Solutions

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State addressed the commissioning, urging Nigerian sectors to prioritize the creation of local solutions for sustainable development. Represented by Mr. Tolani Sule, the Governor highlighted that local knowledge and technical skills are critical for national resilience and future infrastructure management. He argued that the country must move away from its heavy reliance on external expertise, particularly in high-stakes industries like energy. According to Sanwo-Olu, the center positions Lagos as a focal point for innovation where academic ideas are transformed into practical industrial applications.