In a stirring testament to Nigeria’s commitment to building homegrown expertise in the oil and gas industry, PE Energy Limited, in conjunction with Chevron Nigeria Limited and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), has concluded a groundbreaking Human Capital Development (HCD) Programme.
Orchestrated by PANA Academy—the specialised training arm of PE Energy under PANA Holdings—this year-long intensive initiative sought not only to close the human capital gap in Nigeria’s upstream sector but also to nurture a new generation of industry leaders.
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Designing for Excellence: The HCD at a Glance
Launched in adherence to the 2020 HCD Guidelines issued by the NCDMB, the training was implemented as a component of Chevron’s Makaraba-Utonana Gas Management Project. Over 12 rigorous months, the programme meticulously blended 8 months of classroom instruction with 4 months of real-world, on-the-field training, ensuring that participants acquired both the technical know-how and the adaptability needed for Nigeria’s dynamic energy sector.
This seamless integration of theory and practice reflects a progressive approach to skills development, where innovation, professional discipline, and practical readiness are not optional but foundational.
From Graduation to Employment: A Reward for Excellence
The uplifting highlight of this programme came when six standout trainees earned immediate employment with PE Energy Limited. These individuals had distinguished themselves with unwavering character, exceptional competence, and steadfast commitment—embodying the core values the programme sought to instil.
It’s a powerful gesture—transforming promise into purpose, and ambition into action. These new hires offer living proof that investing in youth and local capacity yields not just graduates, but future industry leaders.
Voices of Leadership: A Collective Celebration
Dr. Daere Akobo, Group Chief Executive Officer of PE Energy and Chairman of PANA Holdings, eloquently captured the ethos behind the initiative:
“At PE Energy, we don’t just support Nigerian content—we build it. Through PANA Academy, we equip youths with future-proof skills to thrive and lead in the energy sector.”
He underscored the critical role of public–private partnerships, lauding the concerted efforts of Chevron and the NCDMB whose technical expertise, policy alignment, and supportive collaboration were pivotal to the training’s impact.
Similarly, the NCDMB, represented by Mrs Tarilate Teide-Bribena (Manager, Human Capital Development), applauded the seamless execution of the HCD programme. She reaffirmed the Board’s dedication to initiatives that elevate indigenous competence, standardisation, and global competitiveness. Moreover, she encouraged participants and aspirants alike to register on the NOGIC JQS portal—a strategic platform for accessing quality training and industry opportunities.
From Chevron Nigeria, Engr. Nonso Echukwu conveyed his delight with the programme’s outcomes, extending appreciation to both PE Energy and NCDMB. He urged the newly graduated trainees to embrace this rare opportunity wholeheartedly, applying their acquired skills to drive meaningful contributions to Nigeria’s energy landscape.
Echoing the sentiment, Mr. James Foli Odafe—speaking on behalf of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC)—underscored the importance of developing local talent in the region. He applauded PE Energy for its dedication to nurturing youth capacity, recognising the profound impact on community growth and sustainability.
A Broader Impact: Beyond Graduation
While the graduation ceremony, held at the PE Energy Centre of Excellence in Port Harcourt’s Trans-Amadi district, celebrated individual achievement, it also served as a vibrant symbol: that coordinated, strategic investments in people can power national transformation.
- For PE Energy, it reaffirms their corporate philosophy of building—not just supporting—local content.
- For Chevron, NCDMB, and NDDC, it showcases the tangible results of collaborative policy and capacity building.
- And for the graduands themselves, it delivers more than certification—it grants a leap toward real career growth.
This milestone underscores a vital truth: as Nigeria’s energy sector evolves, its strength will lie not in imported talent, but in the ingenuity and skill of its own people.
Looking to Tomorrow: Strengthening the Pipeline
The success of this HCD Programme positions PANA Academy—and by extension, PE Energy—as a blueprint for how energy firms across Nigeria might approach human capital development.
By fostering hands-on training, instilling strong professional values, and ensuring pathways to real employment, this model stands as a beacon for others to emulate. Continued collaboration with bodies like the NCDMB and engagement with platforms such as NOGIC JQS will be instrumental in scaling access and impact.
The message is clear: Nigeria’s energy future is homegrown, bright, and built on empowered individuals.
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