Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB, has called for a responsible, transparent, and environmentally conscious approach to Africa’s hydrocarbon development, stressing that the continent’s vast energy resources must serve as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable growth.
Speaking at the 4th Biennial International Conference on Hydrocarbon Science and Technology, ICHST, in Abuja, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, represented by Tersugh Tassalla, General Manager, Research, Statistics and Development Division, said Africa must strike a delicate balance between resource exploitation, environmental protection, and good governance.
Delivering a keynote address themed “Transforming Africa’s Hydrocarbon Sector: Balancing Growth, Environment and Governance,” Ogbe noted that while Africa holds enormous hydrocarbon potential, the sustainability of its energy sector will depend on transparent governance, local participation, and environmental stewardship.
“The choices we make today will determine whether hydrocarbons remain a source of narrow revenue or become a platform for sustainable, inclusive growth,” Ogbe said.
He pointed to Nigeria’s success story in local content implementation as a continental benchmark, noting that the country had increased its local content level from less than 5 percent in 2010 to over 54 percent in 2025 through deliberate policies, capacity building, and private sector collaboration.
“Nigeria’s local content growth reflects the result of consistent policy direction and partnership. Our experience demonstrates that Africa can harness its energy resources while creating jobs, building industries, and protecting the environment,” he added.
The NCDMB boss stressed the importance of regional cooperation among African nations to overcome shared challenges in technology, infrastructure, and governance. He said collaboration remains vital for achieving energy security and economic diversification across the continent.
During the conference, the NCDMB was presented with the Strategic Partnership Excellence Award in recognition of its invaluable support and contribution to the success of the 2025 edition of ICHST.
Receiving the award on behalf of the Board, Ms. Tassalla reaffirmed NCDMB’s commitment to promoting research, innovation, and knowledge-sharing within the oil and gas industry.
“This recognition reinforces our resolve to deepen collaboration and strengthen Africa’s capacity to transform its hydrocarbon resources responsibly,” she said.
The ICHST 2025 brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and academics to deliberate on sustainable pathways for Africa’s hydrocarbon development amid global energy transition pressures.
