December 03, (THEWILL) — The Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, on Tuesday, said Nigeria stands at the defining moment. Saying that global energy systems are rapidly transforming, and our country must prepare for a future that balances traditional oil and gas operations with cleaner and more innovative energy solutions.
Engr Ogbe, represented by Mr Teddy Bai, Head of Government Relations, NCDMB, said, “At the heart of this transition is you, the Nigerian youth. You are not just the leaders of tomorrow; you are contributors and solution creators today. Your creativity, digital literacy, and entrepreneurial capacity are crucial assets for solving some of our most pressing challenges.
“The challenges include Pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft, Environmental degradation, Skills gaps in emerging energy technologies, and Innovation for local content development. NCDMB recognises your central role, and this event is one of many interventions designed to empower, inform, and prepare you for opportunities ahead.”
The Executive Secretary handed down this during the Practical Nigerian Content (PNC) 2025 Youth Forum at the Government House Golden Tulip Yenagoa bayelsa state capital, with the theme: “Building Youth Capacity, Securing Investments, Sustaining Growth In The Oil And Gas Industry” said over the years, NCDMB has invested heavily in human capacity development, entrepreneurship programs, technical training, and targeted youth initiatives. “These investments are not symbolic-they are strategic.”
“Our goal is simple: To build a competent, globally competitive Nigerian workforce that drives in-country value creation across the entire energy sector. At this event, you will hear from experts across regulatory agencies, academia, security institutions, and industry partners.”
He said part of the discussion was on pathways for youth participation in the oil and gas value chain, Skills that will shape the future of work in energy, and how to register on the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Joint Qualification System (NOGICJQS). Others include Upcoming NCDMB training and capacity-building opportunities, The importance of responsible conduct and community protection, “We encourage every participant to REGISTER on the NOGICJQS.
“We cannot discuss youth engagement without addressing the growing challenge of pipeline vandalism and restiveness that destroys our environment, discourages investment, and opportunities for legitimate youth empowerment. Let me clearly state: The Nigerian youth must be champions of protection- not destruction- of the national assets. I’m sure that our guest speaker, Mr Mathew Seiyefa and other personalities we invited will do justice to the subject and more.
“As the global energy landscape shifts toward renewable and low-carbon technologies, Nigeria is also preparing for a diversified and sustainable future. In this future, Young innovators will create energy solutions for rural communities.
“Local technology startups will support oil and gas operations. Trained artisans and technicians will build infrastructure for gas-based industrialisation. Engineers, data analysts, and environmental specialists will lead new projects. We must equip ourselves today for the opportunities of tomorrow.
“NCDMB will continue to champion local content, support young entrepreneurs, and work with partners to ensure that Nigeria remains competitive in this evolving global market. A CALL TO ACTION To the youth gathered here today, I leave you with this challenge: Be intentional. Be curious.
“Be disciplined and most importantly, be ready. Opportunities will come; many are already here. But only those who prepare, who learn, who engage positively, and who position themselves strategically will take full advantage.NCDMB stands ready to support you, guide you, and empower you toward a better future.
In his goodwill message, the governor of Bayelsa state, Senator Douye Diri, who was represented by the Director General of the Centre for Youth Development, Comrade Robert Igali, said, “If one youth is developed, we are happy as a state.”
Diri said Youth must be very deliberate to learn and unlearn, make new friends and make a strategic move. “Take advantage of any opportunities provided by the Prosperity Government, our partners and the Multi-National Companies. You are all aware that the Prosperity Government has invested heavily in infrastructure, security and good governance.
“A strategic partnership has been signed, and our state is now positioned for industrialisation upon the kick-starting of the Gas Turbine, knowing that many investors will be coming to invest in our state. Therefore, the youth must coordinate themselves, not allow our state to be de-marketed for the wrong reasons. It’s time to take advantage of the opportunities, for our partners, especially the NCDMB, let us be more practical and proactive, enough talking.”
In his keynote address, Mathew Seiyefa, former Director General, Department of State Security (DSS), said the agitation for the development of the Niger Delta has been a long-standing issue dating back to the colonial era.
The former DG, DSS, who spoke on the topic, “The Role of Nigerian Youth in Securing Energy Investments for Sustainable Development”, said the Ijaws have played a pivotal role in the struggle and have also paid the greatest price in terms of environmental despoliation, destruction of communal properties and loss of lives.
He said it’s time to rethink and re-strategise for the future. “Contrary to conventional thinking, which states hydrocarbon resources as the most critical resource in the Niger Delta region, the youths who are from an overwhelming proportion of the population are the most vital resource.”
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
