Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB, says over 2000 jobs would be created when the ongoing development of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Parks Scheme, NOGaPS, in Emeyal-1, Ogbia in Bayelsa State, is completed and begins operations.
NOGaPS, according to NCDMB would create enabling environment and physical infrastructure that will enable low-cost manufacturing of a range of made in Nigeria goods for the oil and gas industry.
Designated for the pilot phase in Bayelsa, Imo and Cross River state, NOGaPS involves the establishment of physical infrastructure and enabling environment that will attract OEMs, multinationals and other oil and gas related manufacturers to establish manufacturing shop-floors close to oil and gas fields and communities.
Speaking, the Executive Secretary, NCDMB, Engr. Simbi Wabote, at the town hall meeting with stakeholders on the Commencement of Roads/Drainage works at NOGAPS Emeyal-1, assured that the board does not abandon projects.
Wabote said the Townhall Meeting was to formally inform stakeholders that the board has secured Federal Government’s approval to award a contract for the construction of roads and drainage system in furtherance of the development of the industrial park.
He explained that the work scope includes the construction of roads, pavements, walkways, parking lots, concrete-lined drainages, service ducts amongst others.
According to him, “This development fits perfectly into our mantra to domicile and domestic oil and gas activities in-country.
“A key benefit to highlight is that about 2,000 jobs are projected to be created when this park is in full operation in addition to serving as a capacity development center and on-the-job training hub for our youths. There is no doubt that this project will positively impact Bayelsa State in general and the Ogbialand/ Emeyal-1 community in particular.”
Wabote who introduced the winner of the contract OK Isokariari & Sons to the stakeholders, task the contractor to ensure safety and security at the site, promote a cordial and harmonious relationship with the communities and ensure to deliver on time, within budget, and to the quality specified.
He disclosed that there were more contracts lined up for the development of the 25 hectares industrial park in Emeyal-1, such as plans to provide electrical and water utilities, warehouses, manufacturing shop floors, factories, capacity building centre, hostels, administrative block, mini estate, security posts, fire station, etc.
“As part of the contract, we have made provision for hiring of a minimum of 80 percent of all ‘unskilled labour’ from the host and immediate communities for the project implementation.
“A minimum of 50 percent of the semi-skilled and 20 percent of the skilled labour requirements are also expected to be sourced from the host and immediate communities except where there is no response to such advertised positions from the community
“In addition, community suppliers shall be included in the supply of sand, granite, water, fuel, and other items as determined by the contractor. Such supplies shall be to the quality required and of the fair market price.
“I expect utmost cooperation from all as you play your roles and be part of history that will place your community on the map of oil and gas manufacturing activities. Such roles include checkmating any individual or group that wants to derail this wonderful opportunity from coming into fruition in your community,” Wabote said.
