SPIE Global Services Energy Limited has embarked on a significant initiative to empower local communities in Nigeria by providing specialized technical training aimed at enhancing their employability within the energy sector. Launched in 2024, this program underscores SPIE’s commitment to fostering local talent development and contributing to the growth of the Nigerian oil and gas industry. The training, conducted at SPIE’s state-of-the-art facility in Port Harcourt, adheres to the internationally recognized OPITO International Technical Standards, ensuring that participants receive high-quality instruction and gain globally marketable skills. This program represents a crucial investment in human capital, aiming to bridge the skills gap within the industry and create pathways for meaningful employment for individuals from underrepresented communities.
The Specialised Process and Maintenance Training Programme, a 12-week intensive course, focuses on providing a blended learning experience, combining theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on training. This dual approach ensures that participants not only understand the principles behind the processes but also gain the practical skills required to effectively apply them in real-world scenarios. This approach is designed to produce graduates who are well-rounded and readily employable, possessing both the theoretical understanding and the practical competence necessary to excel in the demanding oil and gas industry. By focusing on both theoretical and practical aspects, SPIE is equipping participants with a comprehensive skill set that significantly enhances their value to potential employers.
The initial phase of the program targets two local communities, Andoni and Rebisi, with a total of 40 participants divided into four batches. A key element of the program is its emphasis on gender balance, with equal representation of male and female participants in each group. This commitment to inclusivity aims to address gender disparities within the traditionally male-dominated energy sector and provide equal opportunities for women to pursue careers in the field. By promoting gender balance, SPIE is fostering a more diverse and representative workforce, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable industry landscape.
SPIE’s Managing Director in Nigeria, Guillaume Niarfeix, highlighted the importance of this initiative, emphasizing that the world-class training is provided at no cost to the participants. This removes a significant barrier to entry for individuals from these communities, allowing them to access valuable training and improve their employment prospects without incurring financial burdens. Niarfeix underscored the company’s commitment to equipping individuals with the skills necessary to thrive within the competitive oil and gas industry. The provision of free, high-quality training represents a significant investment in the future of these communities and the broader Nigerian energy sector.
Upon successful completion of the program, each graduate receives a recognized certificate, validating their acquired skills and competencies. This certification serves as a valuable credential, enhancing their employability and increasing their chances of securing gainful employment within the industry. The certification not only recognizes their acquired skills but also demonstrates their commitment to professional development, making them attractive candidates for prospective employers. By providing a tangible certification, SPIE is equipping graduates with a tool to demonstrate their competence and access opportunities within the industry.
SPIE has extended an invitation to other stakeholders and corporate bodies to collaborate in expanding the program’s reach to more communities. This collaborative approach aims to amplify the program’s impact and extend its benefits to a wider population. By partnering with other organizations, SPIE seeks to create a broader network of support for skills development and community empowerment within the Nigerian energy sector. This call for collaboration reflects SPIE’s recognition that a collective effort is required to effectively address the skills gap and ensure that individuals from all communities have access to the training and opportunities they need to succeed.
