Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited (HEOSL), the operator of the OML30 assets on behalf of the partnership between the Nigeria National Petroleum Company E&P Limited and Shoreline Natural Resources Limited, recently organized a significant capacity-building workshop aimed at indigenous contractors. This event took place at Wetland Hotel in Ughelli, Delta State, and attracted a substantial number of registered contractors from various clusters associated with OML30. The workshop intends to reinforce the essential role that these contractors play in the operational success of the company and to address the challenges they face within the oil and gas sector.
During the workshop, Sola Adebawo, HEOSL’s General Manager for Government, Joint Venture, and External Relations, emphasized the importance of the indigenous contractors and their contributions to the company’s operations. Represented by Felix Usiwo, the Manager of the Nigeria Content Department, Adebawo explained that the purpose of the workshop was to equip local contractors with the necessary knowledge and skills to successfully navigate the complexities associated with procurement and contracting in the oil and gas industry. The goal is to empower these contractors to take full advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead, ultimately reinforcing the company’s operational framework.
Adebawo further highlighted the workshop’s alignment with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act of 2010, which underscores the significance of local content in project development and execution. He reiterated the company’s commitment to enhancing operational excellence through collaboration with local vendors. He noted that the sustained efforts toward fostering peace, understanding, and development between the asset and surrounding communities have contributed positively to both the company’s successes and community well-being.
Dr. Jeremiah Oharisi, HEOSL’s Manager of Community Relations, conveyed the organization’s policy to actively promote the participation of local contractors. He pointed out the long-lasting socioeconomic benefits of such initiatives, indicating that encouraging local businesses can lead to wealth creation and empowerment within the communities. Additionally, he highlighted that this strategy would nurture expertise and build capacity among local contractors, further solidifying the relationship between HEOSL and the indigenous communities.
The workshop featured a range of resource presentations designed to enhance contractors’ understanding of pertinent processes in the industry. Engr. Mabel Obonin from the Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board guided participants through various stages of the contracting and tendering process as dictated by the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act. She discussed pivotal topics such as vendor registration, monitoring and evaluation services, capacity building, and funding structures, ensuring that contractors are well-informed of the necessary steps to engage effectively in the sector.
Other notable speakers included HEOSL managers who addressed several essential topics relevant to contractors. Mr. Echerebor Solomon discussed vendor selection and tendering processes while Mrs. Ebehi Odejobi spoke about the company’s commitment to integrity and compliance with regulations. Financial aspects were covered by HEOSL Finance Department members, Mr. Babatunde Yusuf and Mr. Ezekiel Oghenekaro, who elaborated on contractual payments and procedures. The event was further enriched by goodwill messages from OML30 Joint Venture Partners and representatives from the Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board, emphasizing the collective commitment to fostering local contractor participation and fostering a conducive environment for growth within the Nigerian oil and gas industry.
