The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) has introduced a human capital development plan designed to help Nigeria achieve its $1 trillion GDP goal by 2030. By focusing on specialized education, technical proficiency, and energy-sector research, the agency aims to bolster the national economy.
Prof. Shua’ibu Aliyu, the Executive Secretary of the PTDF, announced in Kaduna that the initiative aligns with the 2026–2030 National Development Plan. The goal is to cultivate a skilled domestic workforce for the oil, gas, and renewable energy industries. Aliyu emphasized that the strategy seeks to retain capital within the country, enhance local research facilities, and prepare experts for massive infrastructure projects.
The plan centers on two main institutions: the Centre for Skills Development and Training in Port Harcourt and the General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua University of Geological Science and Engineering Technology in Kaduna. The Port Harcourt center will provide vocational certification for technicians and craftsmen, while the Kaduna university will offer advanced postgraduate degrees in partnership with top-tier British institutions.
Furthermore, the PTDF has expanded its split-site doctoral program, allowing students to conduct part of their research locally to minimize expenses while maintaining high international standards. The agency is also digitizing its systems to improve operational efficiency.
To ensure alignment with national goals, the PTDF has tied its training programs to major energy projects such as the AKK Gas Pipeline and the UTM Floating LNG. Additionally, a nine-member committee led by Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim has been established to review and reform the university’s governance and infrastructure, aiming to make it a globally competitive center of excellence. Prof. Aliyu credited the support of President Bola Tinubu for these ongoing efforts to build a robust energy workforce.
