The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has emphasised the need for stronger collaboration among oil and gas-producing countries in Africa in local content development to achieve energy sufficiency and sustainable growth.
Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe made the call while delivering a keynote address titled “Africa’s Local Content Collaboration Strategy” at the 10th Edition of the Sub-Saharan International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC) 2026 in Lagos on Tuesday, February 10.
The NCDMB boss called on oil-producing nations to move away from isolated efforts and embrace a unified vision for sustainable growth.
Ogbe, who was represented by the Director of Corporate Services, NCDMB, Dr. Abdulmalik Halilu, stressed that progress in the industry depends on a synergy between governments, private sector leaders, financial institutions, and local communities.
“Our efforts cannot be siloed; they must be collective,” he stated, noting that such partnerships are the bedrock of any successful local content strategy.
The NCDMB executive secretary highlighted Nigeria’s success story in local content development, disclosing that over the last 15 years, the country has achieved a 61% in-country value retention rate. He said this progress was a result of a deliberate process that began with increasing indigenous participation and capacity building in the oil and gas value chain.
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According to him, NCDMB policies have now evolved to tighten regulations, including prohibiting the transfer of certifications to intermediaries to ensure that only competent, capable contractors participate in technical tenders.
Strengthening Regional Ties
Beyond Nigeria’s borders, Ogbe pointed to the November 2025 Brazzaville Accord established by the Africa Petroleum Producers Organisation (APPO). This agreement, according to him, commits member nations to harmonizing local content policies and collaborating on the exploitation of hydrocarbon resources.
By leveraging this accord, African nations can promote regulatory alignment and sectoral cooperation, creating a robust strategy that withstands the pressures of a rapidly changing global energy landscape.
Financing the Future: The Africa Energy Bank
He hailed the establishment of the Africa Energy Bank (AEB), headquartered in Abuja. The bank, which was created through a partnership between APPO and Afreximbank, is designed to bridge the funding gap for energy projects across the continent.
Ogbe called on all stakeholders, including governments, investors, and industry leaders, to support the bank in becoming successful to ensure the continent’s energy independence.
The SAIPEC conference remains a premier industry event, serving as a critical platform for shaping the future of African oil and gas. This year’s edition holding at the Eko Convention Centre in Lagos from February 10–12, has over 1,200 delegates and more than 150 exhibitors in attendance.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist, scholar and analyst of socioeconomic issues in Nigeria and Africa. He is skilled in energy reporting, business and economy, and holds a master's degree in mass communication.
