The Nigerian Content Development Monitoring Board (NCDMB), in collaboration with Sweetcrude Limited, is set to inaugurate the “Champions of Nigerian Content Awards.” This prestigious accolade aims to recognize and celebrate individuals and organizations that have made substantial contributions to the advancement of Nigerian content within the oil and gas sector. The award ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the NCDMB’s state-of-the-art conference hall in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, coinciding with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Opportunity Fair taking place from May 20-22, 2025.
Unlike other industry awards, the “Champions of Nigerian Content Awards” distinguishes itself by employing verifiable achievements based on specific metrics established by the NCDMB’s Monitoring and Evaluation Directorate and other operational divisions. This rigorous evaluation process ensures that the awards are based on tangible contributions and adherence to established standards. The awards encompass a wide range of categories, including the Nigerian Content Icon of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award, International and Indigenous Upstream Operator of the Year, Midstream and Downstream Operator of the Year, International and Indigenous Service Company of the Year, Innovator of the Year, Financial Services Provider of the Year, Media Organisation of the Year, and the Women in Leadership Award for Promoting Gender Equality and Empowerment.
Recipients of these esteemed awards will receive significant benefits, including heightened media visibility and prominent recognition at the NCDMB headquarters, along with other incentives determined by the board. The awards are overseen by a distinguished advisory board comprising prominent industry figures. This advisory board includes the pioneer Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Dr. Ernest Nwapa; the Secretary-General of the African Petroleum Producers Organisation, Dr. Omar Farouk; the former Managing Director of Nigeria LNG Ltd, Mr. Tony Attah; and the former Zonal Operations Controller, Department of Petroleum Resources, Mr. Wole Akinyosoye. Their role is to validate the authenticity of the winners and further enhance the prestige of the awards.
The launch of these awards is particularly timely as the oil and gas industry prepares to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act 2010. This milestone highlights the significant progress made in promoting local participation and capacity building within the sector. The “Champions of Nigerian Content Awards” serves as a fitting tribute to the individuals and organizations who have played a pivotal role in driving this growth and ensuring the successful implementation of the Act.
Mr. Felix Ogbe, Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, emphasized the importance of recognizing and celebrating the pillars of Nigerian content who exemplify the expected standards within the industry. He believes that highlighting these exemplary figures will inspire others to embrace the principles of local content development and contribute to the overall growth of the sector. The awards are expected to serve as a powerful motivational tool, encouraging greater compliance with regulations and fostering a culture of excellence within the Nigerian oil and gas industry.
Mr. Abdulmalik Halilu, Director of Monitoring and Evaluation at the NCDMB, echoed this sentiment, stating that the awards will incentivize and reward compliance with Nigerian content regulations among industry entities. He noted that the board had been considering this initiative for some time, and its launch reflects the NCDMB’s commitment to recognizing and appreciating those who go above and beyond in promoting local content and adhering to established guidelines. The “Champions of Nigerian Content Awards” are poised to become a significant event in the Nigerian oil and gas calendar, showcasing the achievements of industry leaders and inspiring future generations to contribute to the sustainable development of the sector.
