PTDF Initiatives to Boost Nigeria's Oil Sector Workforce

The Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), Prof. Shua’ibu Aliyu, announced initiatives aimed at reducing capital flight in Nigeria's oil sector while aligning with the 2026–2030 National Development Plan. The PTDF's strategy focuses on building local capacity, enhancing technical skills, and supporting the Federal Government's goal of growing Nigeria's economy to $1 trillion by 2030.

This will be achieved through the establishment of the Centre for Skills Development and Training in Port Harcourt and the newly renamed General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua University of Geological Science and Engineering Technology in Kaduna. The Port Harcourt center will offer vocational training with certifications in various petroleum sector skills, while the Kaduna university will provide advanced education and research opportunities in partnership with UK universities.

The PTDF is also digitizing the university for improved efficiency and expanding its split-site doctoral program to reduce reliance on overseas education. The initiatives align with major national energy projects, including the AKK Gas Pipeline and Dangote projects.