BUILDING A CAREER IN NIGERIA'S OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

The oil and gas industry is a significant contributor to the economy of Nigeria, and opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship in the sector can be lucrative.

This industry is a vital part of Nigeria’s economy, providing employment for thousands of people, and contributing significantly to the country’s GDP.

However, breaking into the industry can be challenging and it is important to thoroughly research and prepare before taking the plunge.

Here are some steps you can take to get started in the oil and gas business in Nigeria:

Table of Contents

How to Build a Career in Nigeria’s Oil And Gas Industry

Acquire the necessary education and training

To get started in the oil and gas industry, you’ll need to have a strong foundation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

A degree in one of these fields is highly preferred by employers and you may also want to consider obtaining a specialized qualification in a subject relevant to the industry, such as petroleum engineering or geology.

In addition to formal education, you will also need to undergo practical training to gain hands-on experience in the field.

This could involve internships, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training programs.

Many companies in the oil and gas industry offer training programs for new hires, so be sure to take advantage of these opportunities if they are available.

Build your skills and knowledge

The oil and gas industry is highly specialized and it is important to have a strong foundation in the relevant fields.

Depending on the role you are interested in, you may pursue education or training in areas such as engineering, geology, or business.

There are also many specialized courses and certifications that can help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the industry.

Read also: Top 10 sites to learn Digital skills in Nigeria.

Gain industry experience

To build a career in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, experience is a key factor.

The more experience you have, the more valuable you will be to employers and the more opportunities you will have to advance in your career.

One way to gain experience is by starting at the bottom and working your way up.

This could involve taking on entry-level roles such as a field hand or an assistant to a more experienced worker.

Another option is to volunteer or intern with a company in the industry, which can give you valuable experience and help you make connections in the field.

Network and build relationships

Networking and building relationships is an important part of any career and this is especially true in the oil and gas industry.

The industry is small and highly competitive so making connections and building relationships with people in the field can give you a significant advantage in your career.

To build relationships, you should attend industry events and conferences, join professional organizations in Nigeria and reach out to people in the industry who you admire and would like to work with.

You should also be proactive about seeking out mentors who can offer guidance and support as you build your career.

If you would love to connect with professionals in different fields, join our WhatsApp community.

Stay up to date with industry trends and development

The oil and gas industry in Nigeria is constantly evolving and it is important to stay up to date with the latest trends and development in the field.

This could involve reading industry publications, attending workshops and seminars, and participating in continuing education programs.

By staying informed about the latest developments in the industry, you will be better equipped to take on new challenges and opportunities as they arise, and you will be more attractive to potential employers.

Read also: The evolution of the Fintech Industry in Nigeria.

Consider specializing in a particular area

The oil and gas industry in Nigeria is vast, and encompasses many different specialties including exploration, drilling, production, transportation, and refining.

If you want to stand out in the industry, you may want to consider specializing in a particular area.

For example, you could focus on offshore drilling, pipeline construction, or environmental management.

By specializing in a specific area, you will be able to develop a deeper understanding of the technical and operational aspects of the industry, and you’ll be more attractive to employers looking for specialists in a particular area.

Consider starting your own business

While workin for a large company can be a good way to get started in the industry, there are also many opportunities for entrepreneurship in the oil and gas sector.

This can include everything from providing services to oil and gas companies such as consulting or transportation to starting your own exploration or production company.

However, starting a business in the oil and gas industry can be risky and requires a significant investment of time and resources.

It is important to thoroughly research and plan before deciding to go into the business for yourself.

Read also: 5 Smart tips on how to choose a career in the Tech industry.

Understand the regulations and legal requirements

The oil and gas industry is heavily regulated and it is important to understand the legal requirements for doing business in Nigeria.

This includes obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, following environmental regulations, and complying with the industry’s standards.

It is also important to be aware of the potential risks and liabilities associated with working in the oil and gas industry.

Be proactive and take charge of your career

Building a successful career in the oil and gas industry in Nigeria requires hard work, dedication, and a willingness to take charge of your career development.

You should be proactive about seeking out new opportunities and learning as much as you can about the industry

This could involve seeking out training and development programs, taking on new challenges, and seeking out mentors who can offer guidance and support as you build your career in the oil and gas industry.

Conclusion

It is not easy to build a career in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

But, with hard work, dedication, the right support and resources, and avoiding certain pitfalls such as poor networking, unclear career goals, and disobeying the legal rules, it is possible to build a successful career or business in this dynamic and rewarding industry.

I hope you find this useful, do leave your thoughts in the comments section.

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About Author

Aiyepe Ayishat: Aiyepe Ayishat is an author of several unpublished articles. She is mainly into writing and editing. In her free time, she likes to read, make motivating videos, obsess over music, practice new writing skills and watch movies. Aiyepe Ayishat resides in Lagos, Nigeria. She is currently studying Electronics and computer engineering in Lagos State University.