Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited, in collaboration with its joint venture partners and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, has commissioned a state-of-the-art geoscience centre at the University of Lagos.
The project, approved by NCDMB and executed under the Nigerian Content Human Capacity Development programme, is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen institutions, upgrade universities, and enhance technical and vocational education nationwide. The initiative aims to build a skilled workforce capable of supporting Nigeria’s oil and gas industry and related sectors.
Speaking at the commissioning, NCDMB Executive Secretary, Felix Omatsola Ogbe, described human capital development as central to Nigeria’s local content agenda. Represented by the Board’s Director of Capacity Building, Abayomi Bamidele, he noted that the centre reflects a strong commitment to enhancing local expertise and positioning Nigeria competitively in the global energy landscape.
He explained that geosciences play a critical role in discovering new oil and gas reserves and would support ongoing efforts to unlock fresh energy projects in line with the policy direction of Bola Tinubu. He added that geosciences has been identified as one of the top skills in NCDMB’s Oil and Gas Field Readiness Training, which aims to equip 10,000 young Nigerians with industry-relevant competencies.
Ogbe further emphasized that the Board prioritises the use of locally produced goods, services, and expertise within the oil and gas sector, stressing that capacity development remains a key pillar of its mandate.
On the choice of UNILAG, he said the institution was selected based on its demonstrated strengths in geosciences and related disciplines. He assured that similar centres would be established in other institutions across the country to boost local capabilities.
Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Tolani Sule, called on stakeholders across sectors to prioritise homegrown solutions for sustainable development.
He noted that locally developed knowledge and skills are vital not only for the energy sector but also for environmental management, infrastructure development, and broader economic growth. According to him, Lagos’ progress depends largely on how well its young population is prepared for future challenges.
The Managing Director of SNEPCo, Ronald Adams, urged the university to leverage the facility for advanced research and industry collaboration. He encouraged stakeholders in the energy sector to partner with UNILAG through research funding, student mentorship, and internship opportunities, describing the centre as a national asset rather than a corporate project.
Adams also acknowledged the support of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and other joint venture partners, as well as NCDMB, for their roles in delivering the project.
In her remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, Folashade Ogunsola, said the centre would significantly enhance research capacity and academic excellence within the institution. She explained that the facility would provide students with hands-on training using advanced technology, simulation laboratories, and modern research tools.
She added that the centre would serve as a hub for specialised studies such as reservoir modelling, seismic interpretation, and core analysis, preparing students for careers in the energy industry.
Ogunsola also disclosed that the university, in collaboration with its partners, has developed a sustainability framework to ensure the long-term efficiency and global competitiveness of the facility through consistent funding, technological upgrades, and structured maintenance.
