Odeh, Zuhumben head NCDMB, NLNG technical group monitoring speedy resolutions of operational issues,  project execution

The Nigeria LNG Limited and Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) have set up a technical working group (TWG)- headed by the duo of Mr. Andy Odeh, NLNG, General Manager, External Relations, and Sustainable Development (ER), and Engr. Paul Zuhumben, General Manager, Project Certification and Authorization Division (PCAD), NCDMB, established with the task of monitoring quick resolutions of strategic and operational issues as well as ensuring speedy project execution.

This was contained in a statement released by NCDMB and obtained by EnergyDay on Thursday.

According to the statement, the technical working group was the outcome of the agreement reached by the duo after a meeting in August 2022.

EnergyDay gathered that the two organisations had earlier agreed to set up a small group that would allow for in-person discussions and resolution of issues, cutting out bureaucracy, improving the efficiency of decision-making, approvals, and Nigerian content development for NLNG.

Zuhumben, in his remark at the inaugural meeting held in Lagos on Tuesday, said that the technical working group would not take over the work of different NCDMB directorates, divisions, and departments, but would only focus on emerging issues that will collectively improve development and compliance with Nigerian Content in the oil and gas industry.

He added that the Board had always acted beyond its role as a regulator and fostered collaborations with different stakeholders within and outside the Nigerian oil and gas industry, to ensure better working relationships and a more productive oil and gas industry and economy.

He said, “Some of the objectives of the TWG are to resolve issues or delays arising from Nigerian Content compliance on contracts and projects that have been unable to reach a resolution at the operational level, reduce the frequency of letters seeking or providing clarifications on Nigerian content issues, and provide a forum for mutual understanding of issues and concerns.

“Others are to review current and emerging Nigerian Content issues on NLNG contracts and projects to achieve mutually beneficial resolutions.

“The group would also devise strategies to address recurring challenges within a specific timeline in line with NCDMB-NLNG Business-to-Business Service Level Agreement (SLA), ”  Zuhumben said.

EnergyDay further gathered that both parties also agreed to share best practices, strengthen, and deepen the relationship between both organizations for improved Nigerian Content compliance and development.

The respective executive management are expected to intervene and make recommendations on any issue that goes beyond the authority of the TWG.