- The Nigerian government has agreed with Robert Gordon University and the University of Strathclyde to promote collaboration and technology transfer in the oil and gas sector.
- The partnership aims to enhance academic programs at the College of Petroleum & Energy Studies in Kaduna and build local capacity in Nigeria’s energy industry.
The Nigerian government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Robert Gordon University (RGU) in Aberdeen and the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow to enhance collaboration, knowledge exchange, and technology transfer in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
The agreement, announced by Nneamaka Okafor, Special Adviser to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri, aims to strengthen academic and professional programs at the College of Petroleum & Energy Studies in Kaduna.
Mr Lokpobiri signed the MoU on behalf of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) alongside Steve Olivier, Vice Chancellor of RGU, and Jim McDonald, Principal of the University of Strathclyde. The partnership marks a significant step towards improving local capacity in the oil and gas sector, aligning with global best practices.
“The agreement establishes a framework for academic exchange and technology transfer to enhance further the academic and professional programs at the College of Petroleum & Energy Studies,” the statement read.
At the signing ceremony, Mr. Lokpobiri emphasised the importance of the collaboration, noting that it represents Nigeria’s commitment to bridging the gap between global practices and local expertise. He stated, “By bringing these knowledge transfer programs to Nigeria, we are building a foundation for a self-sustaining oil and gas sector driven by highly skilled Nigerians.”
Ahmed Aminu, Executive Secretary of PTDF, also signed the agreement and stressed that Robert Gordon University and the University of Strathclyde have been reliable partners, hosting PTDF-sponsored scholars. He added that this collaboration will develop in-country capacity and provide more opportunities for Nigerians to benefit from the PTDF scholarship scheme.
Both university leaders expressed their excitement for the partnership. Mr. Olivier noted, “We are proud to extend our expertise directly to Nigeria and help make the College of Petroleum & Energy Studies a hub for innovation and excellence.”
Mr McDonald echoed this sentiment: “This collaboration shows the transformative power of global partnerships in education and industry, paving the way for a brighter future for Nigeria’s energy sector.”