Elegbede Abiodun
Nigeria’s education and energy sectors has recorded a major boost as Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited, in collaboration with Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, unveiled a cutting-edge Geosciences Centre of Excellence at the University of Lagos.
The newly commissioned facility is a five-storey complex fitted with advanced equipment to support research and training in key areas such as hydrogeology, mineralogy, environmental geology, and seismic studies. It also houses a seismic interpretation room, a digital museum, and a well-equipped library, positioning it as a world-class hub for academic and industry-focused research.
According to the project partners, the centre is designed to strengthen both undergraduate and postgraduate education while reducing Nigeria’s dependence on foreign institutions for specialised training, testing, and research in the oil and gas sector.
Speaking at the commissioning, SNEPCo Managing Director Ronald Adams described the project as a strategic investment in human capital development. Representing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Commissioner for Tertiary Education Tola Sule noted that the facility would promote practical learning, enabling students to gain hands-on experience beyond theoretical knowledge.
Also speaking, NNPC’s Chief Upstream Investment Officer, Olanrewaju Igandan, said the project demonstrates the impact of collaboration between industry players, regulators, and academic institutions in driving national development.
On behalf of the NCDMB, Executive Secretary Felix Ogbe, represented by Abayomi Bamidele, stressed that the true value of the centre would be measured by the calibre of graduates it produces, the quality of research output, and its ability to address real industry challenges.
Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, expressed optimism that the centre would deliver globally competitive research services and offer a range of programmes, including degree courses, professional certifications, and executive training tailored to industry and government needs.
Originally conceptualised in 2010, the project was executed by indigenous firm 225MM Construct Limited. Students from several institutions, including Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ilorin, and Yaba College of Technology, participated in the construction through internship programmes, gaining valuable practical experience.
The initiative adds to the long-standing commitment of SNEPCo and its partners to educational development in Nigeria, which includes scholarship schemes, science laboratory donations to secondary schools, and the establishment of e-learning centres in multiple states.
