The 13th Practical Nigerian Content (PNC) Forum 2024, held in Bayelsa State from December 2–5, brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to explore new frontiers for advancing local content in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. Under the theme, “Defining the Next Frontier for Nigerian Content Implementation,” the forum emphasized the pivotal role of local content in driving sustainable development and energy sufficiency nationwide.
As a catalyst for inclusive growth in the Niger Delta, PIND Foundation actively contributed to these critical conversations, showcasing its initiatives and advocating for sustainable solutions to the region’s unique challenges.
PIND’s Executive Director, Tunji Idowu, delivered a compelling address titled “Youth Employment Pathways (YEP): Equipping the Next Generation for Sustainable Growth in the Niger Delta.” His presentation highlighted the transformative potential of empowering young people with skills tailored to today’s evolving job market. Tunji underscored how PIND’s Youth Employment Pathways (YEP) program addresses the region’s youth unemployment crisis by offering market-driven training and fostering entrepreneurial ventures, creating a foundation for economic resilience and inclusion.
Beyond youth empowerment, Tunji emphasized the strategic importance of local content as a driver of Nigeria’s economic transformation. He called for multi-sectoral collaboration, innovative solutions, and the strategic use of local resources to build communities equipped to participate actively in the country’s growing local content ecosystem. His vision for a more inclusive and empowered Niger Delta resonated deeply with the audience.
Tunji further engaged in a dynamic panel discussion titled “Nigerian Content from the Grassroots: Community Capacity Development.” The session explored how grassroots capacity-building initiatives can unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s local content sector. Panelists spotlighted the role of organizations like PIND in equipping communities to become active participants in the nation’s economic future. Discussions highlighted the integration of innovation, technology, and inclusive development as transformative tools for achieving sustainable economic and social impact.
PIND’s contributions throughout the forum reinforced its position as a leader in community empowerment and capacity building. The organization showcased how its initiatives, such as YEP and local content programs, are driving workforce development and unlocking opportunities for underserved communities in the Niger Delta.
By participating in the 13th PNC Forum, PIND demonstrated its unwavering commitment to ensuring the Niger Delta remains central to Nigeria’s local content narrative. As policies evolve, PIND continues to lead efforts that position the region as a key player in shaping the future of the oil and gas sector and Nigeria’s economic growth.
