The Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) in Effurun, Delta State and OIDA Energy Nigeria Ltd., previously known as Oildata Wireline Services, have partnered to provide training on oil and gas field to professionals in the country and West African sub-region.
Oildata, is an indigenous company committed to providing innovative solutions across the oil, gas, and energy value chain,
The two institutions signed a pact on the initiative on Monday, following an assessment of the training facilities at the PTI conducted by a delegation of OIDA Energy Nigeria Ltd. led by the firm’s Team Service Manager, Engr Sunday Adat.
Speaking at the occasion, PTI Principal and Chief Executive, Dr. Samuel Onoji recalled the history of the Institute since its establishment by the Nigerian Federal Government in 1972 “to train competent indigenous technical manpower to meet the labour force demands of the oil and gas industry”, a development which was also seen as a prerequisite for Nigeria’s membership in the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
He noted that PTI has continued to actualize its mandate of conducting training, research, and consultancy in petroleum technology, offering National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes, as well as various certificate courses.
The institute which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022, presently has bilateral training agreement with some African countries just as it also collaborates with some international bodies to train professionals across Nigeria and the West African sub-region, on the latest oil production technologies for sustainable production, he stated.
The OIDA Energy Team Service Manager, Engr Sunday Adat, while commenting on the benefits derivable from the collaborative partnership with PTI explained that the initiative was “designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical, field-based experience”.
He said, “Trainees under this programme will gain hands-on exposure to industry-standard technologies and real-world problem-solving scenarios, ensuring they emerge as employment-ready candidates.
“This collaboration also helps nurture a workforce that is both technically competent and prepared to contribute meaningfully to any organization they find themselves”.
“Currently, the main gap lies in the mismatch between classroom learning and field realities. While the Institute provides strong theoretical and even practical foundations through workshops and labs, graduates often lack adequate exposure to the complexities of real-life field operations”.
Speaking further, Engr Sunday Adat reassured Nigerian professionals in the oil and gas industry of “bright future prospects despite the high rate of divestment from Nigeria by majority of the International Oil Companies (IOCs), in the name of energy transition”.
According to him, “Despite the exit of several IOCs, the outlook for Nigeria’s energy industry remains strong”.
He continued, “Divestments such as Shell Petroleum Development Company’s (SPDC) sale of its onshore and shallow-water assets to Renaissance, a consortium of Nigerian companies created opportunities for indigenous companies to assume greater ownership, strengthening local capacity and resilience.
“At the same time, the global transition presents a chance for Nigeria to reposition itself as a hub for both hydrocarbons and renewable energy solutions.
“OIDA Energy’s vision to lead in producing, processing, and delivering net-zero energy in emerging markets is a direct response to this shift.
“By focusing on efficiency, innovation, and sustainable practices, Nigeria can balance by energy security with climate goals, ensuring long-term growth and relevance in the global energy landscape”.
In a remark, the PTI Assistant Director Training and Head, Linkages, Exchange and Partnerships, Dr. (Mrs.) Sarah Nwinee, reiterated the Institute’s sustained commitment to innovation, industry-academia collaboration, and advocacy for diversity and inclusion.
