Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
RIVERS, Nigeria – The NLNG Engineering Research Centre project begins at Rivers State University as Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) break ground for a state-of-the-art research and innovation facility aimed at strengthening engineering education, research and industrial innovation.
The groundbreaking ceremony takes place on Thursday at Rivers State University in Port Harcourt, where stakeholders describe the project as a strategic investment in human capital, technological advancement and Nigeria’s energy sector.
The facility is designed to expand the university’s research capacity while providing students, researchers and industry professionals with modern laboratories and equipment to develop solutions for challenges facing Nigeria’s energy and industrial sectors.
NLNG Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Adeleye Falade, represented by General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Sophia Horsfall, says the project is an investment in Nigeria’s technological future.
“The centre will help bridge the gap between academic learning and the skills required by industry,” Falade says.
He adds that the facility will promote collaboration among researchers, industry experts and innovators while creating opportunities to commercialise research outcomes.
Executive Secretary of the NCDMB Felix Omatsola Ogbe, represented by Director of Capacity Building Abayomi Bamidele, says the project forms part of the board’s Human Capital Development Institutional Strengthening Programme.
Ogbe says the initiative is designed to improve research infrastructure, technical resources, practical training and innovation across Nigerian higher institutions.
Vice-Chancellor of Rivers State University Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi says the project aligns with the university’s 2026–2030 strategic development plan, particularly its focus on research, entrepreneurship and industry collaboration.
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Abah Felicity 
Oluwatobi Adu