By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has launched a $100 million equity investment fund to support high-growth indigenous energy service companies. Partnering with the Bank of Industry (BOI), the fund aims to strengthen local participation in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Speaking at the 14th Practical Nigerian Content Forum (PNC) in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, NCDMB Executive Secretary Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe described the fund as a vital step to diversify the Nigerian Content Development Fund (NCDF) and enhance local capacity development.
“The $100 million Equity Investment Scheme will provide affordable financing for local companies while promoting stronger local content in the energy sector,” Ogbe said.
The forum, themed “Securing Investments, Strengthening Local Content and Scaling Energy Production,” underscores the board’s drive to attract investment and improve domestic participation in the industry.
Ogbe also announced the NCDF Compliance Certificate framework, effective January 1, 2026. Companies will require the certificate, confirming compliance with the 1% remittance obligations, to access key permits and approvals.
The board’s 10-year Strategic Roadmap, built on five strategic pillars and four enablers, aims to develop the skills and capacity of Nigerian firms and individuals for active engagement in the oil and gas industry.
Highlighting progress, Ogbe said the Community Contractors Scheme disbursed support to over 94 contractors in 2025, expanding opportunities for local players.
Reflecting on the Project 100 program launched in 2019, Ogbe revealed a new cohort will be onboarded by April 2026, following a successful exit plan for existing participants.
Between Q1 and Q2 2026, the board will review seven guidelines and finalize the legal and fiscal framework for the Nigerian Oil and Gas Park Scheme (NOGAPS), opening operations at Odukpani and Emeyal 1 Parks.
Ogbe also noted that Nigerian content levels in monitored projects have risen from 56% to 61%, signaling increased local participation.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo, called the moment pivotal for Nigeria’s energy sector, stressing the critical role of investment, policy, and capacity development.
Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), noted that previous misapplication of local content laws hindered investment and emphasized creating a globally competitive environment to attract sustainable investments.