The Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria (Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria (OGTAN)) says the future strength of the country’s petroleum industry will depend more on skilled manpower, innovation, and technical competence than on natural resources alone.
Speaking in Abuja, the group’s president, Chris Osarumwense, said the global energy landscape is changing quickly, and Nigeria must prioritise training professionals who can effectively use modern technology and improve operational performance across the sector.
He explained that building capacity in the workforce is now a strategic requirement for sustaining competitiveness in the oil and gas industry. According to him, improving knowledge and technical ability will help boost productivity, encourage innovation, and strengthen local participation in the sector.
Osarumwense also announced plans for the 2026 Human Capacity Development Conference and Trainers’ Fair, scheduled for August 25 to 27 at the Petroleum Training Institute (Petroleum Training Institute) in Effurun, near Warri, Delta State. The event will focus on preparing Nigeria’s energy workforce for global standards and future industry demands.
The conference, supported within the framework of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act and backed by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB)), will bring together regulators, operators, training institutions, and young professionals.
Organisers say discussions will centre on workforce gaps, leadership development, digital transformation, and strategies for retaining talent in the energy sector. The event will also feature exhibitions showcasing digital learning tools, simulation technologies, and artificial intelligence applications for training.
Side activities will include innovation competitions, career development sessions, and recognition awards for organisations and individuals contributing to human capital growth in the industry.
Officials of OGTAN say the initiative is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s oil and gas sector through structured skills development and closer alignment with global industry standards.
The association added that empowering workers remains essential for improving efficiency and ensuring long-term sustainability in Nigeria’s energy industry.
The announcement was reported by Channels Television.
