NCDMB, Renaissance Africa partner to train pipeline engineers

Thirty-three young graduates in engineering, geology, and related fields have officially commenced a 12-month training programme focused on pipeline engineering, corrosion control, and monitoring in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The training, which is part of the Nigerian Content Human Capital Development (NC HCD) initiative, is being organised by Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited and MJD Oilfield Services Limited, in collaboration with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

It is designed to build a skilled workforce to protect and maintain Nigeria’s energy infrastructure.

Participants will engage in a mix of classroom sessions, simulation-based learning, field demonstrations, on-the-job training, and continuous evaluations.

The goal is to equip them with the expertise needed for local projects, particularly for key national initiatives like the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline, spanning 614 kilometres, and other infrastructure projects aimed at advancing the energy sector.

 Manager of Human Capital Development at NCDMB, Tarilate Bribena-Teide who represented the Executive Secretary of the Board, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, emphasised the importance of pipeline pigging and corrosion control in maintaining the integrity of energy systems.

Pipeline pigging it’s explained refers to the process of sending a “pig” (a device) through a pipeline to clean, inspect, or maintain the pipeline. The term “pig” originally came from the squealing sound the device would make while moving through the pipe, but today it can refer to several types of devices used for different functions.

The main purposes of pipeline pigging include cleaning, inspection, separation and batching.

Corrosion control on the other hand is a set of techniques used to prevent or reduce the damage caused by the corrosive effects of various substances (like water, air, chemicals) on the metal pipes. In the oil and gas industry, pipelines are often exposed to aggressive environments that can cause corrosion, which weakens the pipeline and increases the risk of leaks or failures. Corrosion control methods help to extend the life of pipelines and maintain their safety.

These techniques Bribena-Teide said prevent pipeline failures, reduce environmental risks, and help safeguard the economy. She also highlighted that the training aligns with NCDMB’s mandate to foster local capacity, increase Nigerian involvement in the oil and gas sector, and generate opportunities for national development.

She expressed her appreciation to Renaissance Africa for its partnership in advancing local talent and encouraged the trainees to approach the programme with discipline, as their skills would directly contribute to resolving real-world industry challenges.

Funso Alabi, representing Renaissance Africa, thanked NCDMB for its unwavering support and for fostering the growth of the Nigerian oil and gas industry. He applauded the significant achievements of the NCDMB in building a pipeline of skilled Nigerians now taking key positions in industry both locally and abroad.

Managing Director of MJD, Olayemi Familusi also acknowledged NCDMB and Renaissance for their support, noting the transformative impact of the Board’s initiatives on indigenous companies and human resource development in the sector.

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The Project Manager at MJD, Austin Ugbunaia reiterated the commitment to delivering high-quality training and exposure for the participants, assuring all stakeholders of the programme’s success in meeting industry standards.