PTDF aims to boost Nigeria's $1tn economy goal with new training focus

Nigeria's Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) is actively repositioning its human-capital development initiatives to bolster the nation's ambition of achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2030. The fund is prioritizing domestic training, research, technology, and international partnerships to achieve this goal.

PTDF Executive Secretary and CEO, Prof. Shu’aibu Aliyu, announced the development of a talent ecosystem designed to supply skilled professionals to Nigeria's oil and gas industry. This ecosystem will also enable Nigerian professionals to compete for opportunities across the African continent. Aliyu emphasized that developing local expertise in petroleum, energy, and related fields is crucial for reducing the country's reliance on foreign institutions, conserving foreign exchange, and enhancing Nigeria's capacity to participate in major energy projects.

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We wish to emphasise that the achievements of the PTDF are deeply rooted in the continuous support and strategic guidance of President Bola Tinubu and the 2026-2030 National Development Plan target of $1 trillion GDP economy.

Aliyu highlighted the PTDF's strategy is anchored on two primary institutions. The Centre for Skills Development and Training in Port Harcourt will offer vocational and technical training with internationally recognized certifications in areas like welding, fabrication, and offshore safety. The General Shehu Musa Yar’adua University of Geological Science and Engineering Technology in Kaduna, a postgraduate degree-awarding institution, will focus on geological science and engineering technology. He noted the Kaduna institution's recent renaming, following an announcement by President Bola Tinubu, signifies a commitment to advancing specialized education.

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It is on the basis of that we feel that PTDF can drive a knowledge economy which can make a stronger contribution toward national development and economic growth.