NLNG, NCDMB break ground on HCD Institutional strengthening project

Efforts to expand Nigeria’s indigenous research and technological capacity received a major boost on Thursday as NLNG and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) broke ground for the NLNG Research and Innovation Centre for Computer and Electrical Engineering (RICCEE) at the Rivers State University.

The project, NLNG’s largest Human Capital Development Institutional Strengthening initiative to date, is designed to enhance the University’s capacity to undertake advanced, industry-relevant research, provide specialised training and develop technological solutions in computer and electrical engineering for Nigeria’s energy and industrial sectors.

In addition, a professorial chair, structured to be a fully operational research and development centre, will be instituted at the centre as well to promote industry-focused research and develop solutions to critical operational challenges, especially for NLNG.

According to the NLNG, Successful research outcomes will also have the potential to be commercialised for wider industry application.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NLNG, Adeleye Falade, described the project as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future and a practical demonstration of the company’s commitment to sustainable human capital development.

Falade, who was represented by NLNG’s General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Sophia Horsfall, said the Centre would strengthen the University’s ability to produce highly skilled professionals and conduct research that responds directly to industry needs.

In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, represented by the Director, Capacity Building, Engr. Abayomi Bamidele, described the groundbreaking ceremony as an important milestone in the implementation of the Board’s Human Capital Development objectives.