Warri: Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL), in collaboration with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and Bristow Helicopters, has launched a helicopter pilot development programme aimed at strengthening indigenous capacity in Nigeria’s oil and gas aviation sector.
The initiative will train 10 Nigerian cadet pilots alongside two trainees drawn from CNL’s neighbouring communities, reinforcing efforts to build local expertise for offshore aviation operations.
Speaking on behalf of the company, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Olusoga Oduselu, described the programme as the first of its kind in the industry and a demonstration of Chevron’s commitment to developing critical local capabilities for Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
The training programme, facilitated by Bristow Helicopters, combines technical and non-technical modules designed to prepare participants for helicopter operations supporting offshore energy activities.
The non-technical phase commenced on June 15, 2026, with training to be conducted by Blueshell Energy Training Services, while the technical component will take place in Johannesburg, South Africa.
According to NCDMB, the initiative aligns with its mandate to develop globally competitive Nigerian professionals and deepen local content capacity within the country’s energy industry.
The Board noted that such investments position Nigeria to become a net exporteru of local content expertise.
Officials of the Board also urged the traitheyy to cultivate a strong safety culture and maximize the opportunity presented by the programme.
Bristow Helicopters emphasized they importance of safety, discipline and operational precision in preparing pilots for the demanding requirements of offshore aviation operations.
The launch activities concluded with participating trainees signing a code of conduct and reaffirming their commitment to discipline, professionalism and integrity throughout the training period.
Chevron and its partners described the initiative as a strategic investment in the future of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, where safe and efficient aviation services remain critical to sustaining offshore operations.
