The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has reiterated its mandate to empower local capacities with a view to adding value to the nation’s oil and gas sector. 
The Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Simbi Wabote, made the disclosure during the recent commissioning of Pacegate Energy & Resources Limited (PEARL)’s Chemical Solutions Manufacturing Plant in Lagos. 
According to him, since the Board began implementing the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act, it has always focused on developing in-country capacities in manufacturing, fabrication, engineering, marine vessel and rig ownership; and other high-end services that support the oil and gas industry and create in- country value. 
He said that the board had revised its compliance and enforcement guidelines to continuously focus on promoting local content champions, by ensuring that indigenous companies that invest in capacity are allowed to bid for exclusive scopes in their areas of core competencies. 
He added: “We wish to recognise and acknowledge that during the global pandemic lockdowns the production integrity and operations were sustained by local entities who had built in-country capacity thus did not need to rely on the outside world for critical business support. This was a great testament to the importance of local content capacity development that we preach.” 
Commending the company on the feats it has recorded in adding value to the economy, he stressed the need for it to comply with the provision of the NOGICD Act and the resultant policies and guidelines of NCDMB 
He, however, emphasised the need for a vibrant chemical industry to achieving sustainable development of any nation.