NCDMB and Seplat Finalise Plans for DELSU Centre of Excellence Launch

Senior management representatives from the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and Seplat Energy Plc met with key officials at Delta State University (DELSU) in Abraka, Delta State, on Monday. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss crucial steps leading to the commencement of operations for a Centre of Excellence in Gas Development. This centre had previously received approval from the NCDMB Board in 2024.

This initiative is the latest in a series of similar projects established at institutions including Niger Delta University, Federal University of Technology Minna, Federal University of Technology Akure, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Modibbo Adama University of Technology Yola, and Usman Danfodio University Sokoto. The project stems from a 10-year roadmap for research and development (R&D;) in the Nigerian oil and gas industry, commissioned by NCDMB and conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).

Speaking at the gathering, Abdulmalik Halilu, Director of Corporate Services at NCDMB, who was representing the Board's Executive Secretary, Felix Omatsola Ogbe, highlighted that NCDMB and Seplat personnel had engaged in several discussions since 2024. These discussions were focused on defining a scope that accurately reflects the objectives of a centre of excellence, encompassing infrastructure, equipment, capacity building, research policies, and crucially, long-term project sustainability.

Halilu confirmed that both NCDMB and Seplat Energy managements have approved the proposed scope and are ready for the project's launch. A dedicated team of technical experts has already been assembled to oversee the entire process. He also noted that the Standing Committee responsible for managing the project since its inception has been strengthened with the addition of new general manager-level personnel to ensure project expectations are met.

"We wish to reassure you that the Executive Secretary is fully committed to this project, not only during its development but also throughout its execution," Dr. Halilu stated. He added that the Board has deployed a full complement of staff from quality assurance, research and development, and related operational units to ensure optimal results.

Simeon Ogari, Nigerian Content Manager at Seplat Energy, explained that his company, which operates the ANOH Gas Processing Plant, a 50/50 joint venture with the Nigerian Gas Infrastructure Company (NGIC), selected Delta State University, Abraka, for the Centre of Excellence due to its proximity to their primary operational areas.

Ogari emphasized Seplat's management commitment to the project's timely completion and ongoing support. He noted that the Research Centre for Gas Development would significantly benefit the institution, the oil and gas industry, and Nigeria as a whole by serving as a hub for advanced research and technology innovation.

He further stressed the importance of collaboration, referencing the 'Triple Helix Model' where government, academia, and the private sector work together. He expressed anticipation for this collaborative approach to be a cornerstone of the new Centre.

Leonard Okafor, CEO of GOSHEN, the firm managing the project, provided context, explaining that the PwC research indicated Nigeria operates an "enclave economy" with insufficient inter-sectoral linkages, highlighting the need for robust local content in the oil and gas sector. The Research Centre, he clarified, is one of several initiatives aimed at addressing these shortcomings.

According to Okafor, the PwC research identified five key areas for R&D; to enhance local participation in the industry: Collaboration, Infrastructure, Capability, Commercial/Legal Framework, and Funding. He reiterated that securing effective collaboration is paramount, particularly involving academics with strong research credentials and publication records.

Detailing the "Standard Requirements from Host Institutions," Okafor listed the availability of research staff for secondment to the Centre, administrative support staff, essential policy documents (such as existing Memoranda of Understanding for research collaborations, Research Policy, and Finance and Procurement Policy).

In response, DELSU Vice Chancellor, Professor Samuel Oghenovo Asagba, expressed gratitude to NCDMB and Seplat for establishing a world-class research facility at the university. He pledged to fulfill all requirements for the successful launch of the project.

Professor Asagba highlighted DELSU's competent academics, recognized for their research output, stating that the university, ranked by Times Higher Education in 2026 as "The best state-owned university in Nigeria," possesses "high- flyers" in science and engineering capable of meeting the collaboration requirements.

Mr. Chris Osuji, General Manager of Quality Assurance at NCDMB, stated that his department's involvement ensures a high standard of quality throughout the project. "From inception to completion, NCDMB Quality Assurance will be actively engaged," he confirmed.

In a vote of thanks, Mr. Silas Ajimijaye, Director of Monitoring and Evaluation at NCDMB, thanked Seplat for providing the necessary funding and urged the University Management to leverage the project to enhance its reputation.

Similarly, Professor Douglason Omotor, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Research at DELSU, thanked NCDMB and Seplat for the initiative. He assured that technically proficient academics and experienced administrators would be assigned to ensure effective collaboration for the project.