-By Danlami Nasir Isah
Thirty graduates have commenced post-graduate diploma programme on marine survey under the sponsorship of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
The kick-off ceremony was held recently at the Niger Delta University, Wilberforce, Amassoma, Bayelsa State and the programme will equip participants with techniques to measure the quantity and quality of products such as crude oil, premium motor spirit (PMS), automotive gas oil (AGO) etc.
On graduation, the participants would also be able to perform proper measurement and documentation of the nation’s income from oil and gas production. 20 graduates are enrolled in Marine Survey Level (12 months) while 10 graduates will be trained as Marine Survey Upgrade (6 months).
The classroom component of the training will hold concurrently at the Niger Delta University Entrepreneurship Centre in Bayelsa State, and Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology in Lagos state for 12 months and six months respectively. On-the-job training for the participants will take place at the Centre for Marine Survey Nigeria (CMSN), Lagos and, with international certification from the International Naval Surveys Bureau and Phoenix Register Shipping.
Speaking during the matriculation ceremony, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development Management Board, NCDMB Engr. Simbi K. Wabote hinted that Nigerian ownership of marine vessels and equipment in the oil and gas industry is currently estimated at about 40 per cent.
He added that increasing vessel ownership and participation of Nigerians in the maritime category will go a long way in meeting the 70 percent Nigerian Content aspiration by 2027.
The Executive Secretary who spoke through the General Manager, Capacity Building Division of the Board, Dr. Ama Ikuru maintained that marine surveyors are key to sustaining marine activities in the oil and gas industry and supporting vessel owners to survey and recertify their vessels in-country.
He commended the Centre for Marine Surveyors Nigeria (CMSN) in conjunction with Wider Perspectives Limited and the Niger Delta University for developing a world-class post graduate diploma training programme on Marine Survey.
Also speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor, Niger Delta University, Prof. Samuel Edomiekumo appreciated the Board for partnering the university in such an important programme and assured that it would provide a conducive environment for learning.
A representative of Wider Perspectives Limited, Mrs. Edughom Hanson commended the Board for sponsoring the training and advised the participants to exhibit discipline and commitment to the programme.