Yemie Adeoye 07 November 2014, Sweetcrude, Lagos – The Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria, PETAN, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Nigeria Agip Exploration, NAE, to foster collaboration, develop in- country capacity and create specialised jobs for 20,000 skilled workmen and engineers in the industry.
With an exhibition from 130 selected companies and a gathering of key stakeholders in the industry, comprising the government, vendors, banks, contractors and sub-contractors, Original Equipment manufacturers and investors, the engagement is the first between PETAN and NAE with promises for robust opportunities and better days ahead for the economy at large.
Among other things, the engagement sought to open up opportunities on anticipated projects in the deep offshore for vendors to identify and to position themselves appropriately. It is also aimed at addressing hitches faced by contractors and sub-contractors through the entire process of tendering, and the eventual delivery of services to the IOC, and to make room for tenderers to demonstrate capacity through presentations that they can carry out specific, highly technical jobs in-country.
It will also help sub-contractors and contractors form new allies and to connect during networking sessions, encourage the participation of Original Equipment Manufacturers and have government witness another milestone achievement in the growth of the NOGICD Act.
A multiplier value addition is expected across other sectors of the economy as a result of this initiative. The agricultural industry, aviation, information technology and telecoms would inadvertently witness a positive rippling effect.
Through a similar initiative, PETAN companies across the country have flung its doors wide open to train young Nigerians via the recently launched PETAN/ Shell internship program with NCDMB participation.
The scheme provides a head start for inexperienced graduates of
industry-related courses. These engaged ‘green horns’ currently receiving specialised trainings could have remained un-employed were it not for the initiative of PETAN.