Former lawmaker defends NCDMB against mismanagement allegations

A former three-term member of the House of Representatives, Daniel Reyenieju, has described allegations of funds mismanagement against the management of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB, as unfounded.

Reyenieju in a statement, said those making the allegations do not understand the complexities involved in developing the country’s oil and gas industry.

The lawmaker argued that the NCDMB operates in a highly specialised field where technology transfer and capacity building were paramount.

He stated: “The allegations against the NCDMB are not only unfounded but also reveal a fundamental misunderstanding of the complexities involved in developing Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. While I respect the concerns of the accusers, it is crucial to recognize that the objectives of the NCDMB and the intricacies of its mission are often oversimplified.

“The oil and gas industry is not a one-size-fits-all domain; it requires a nuanced understanding of both local and global market dynamics. The idea that significant financial investments in consultancy and training automatically imply misappropriation is a gross oversimplification. Developing local expertise and reducing dependency on foreign technology necessitates substantial resources—both financial and human.”

Reyenieju pointed out that critics of the NCDMB’s expenditures lacked a comprehensive understanding of the logistical challenges inherent in oil and gas operations.

He added: “This sector demands cutting-edge ideas, advanced training programs, and continuous skill enhancement. These are not cheap endeavors; they require strategic funding to ensure that Nigeria can compete on the global stage.”

He further refuted claims that the NCDMB’s initiatives are politically motivated or excessive, stating: “Building a robust local capacity is a multifaceted process that involves collaboration across various sectors and significant investment in human capital. Those unfamiliar with the oil and gas environment may fail to appreciate the intricacies of this mission. The path to technological independence is lined with challenges that require strategic foresight and commitment.”

On the five-day workshop in London, Reyenieju stated: “This training is not an indulgence; it is a necessary step to ensure our stakeholders are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills. In an industry where the stakes are high, the cost of ignorance can be catastrophic. Every naira invested in capacity building is a step toward securing our energy future and fostering economic independence.”

He also urged the public to challenge the narrative that views the NCDMB as merely a political entity, noting: “This organisation is tasked with a vital mission that transcends political interests. Allowing prejudices to cloud our judgment risks undermining initiatives that could propel Nigeria toward self-reliance.

“It is essential to understand that government funds are not meant to be warehoused; they are allocated for critical initiatives that drive national progress. Agencies like the NCDMB are not banks; they are tasked with implementing programs that require timely and effective expenditure. Even banks operate on a daily basis, managing their resources to foster growth. The real issue at hand is whether the funds were utilized for the purposes for which they were approved. If there are concerns about mismanagement, there are agencies in place to investigate and address such issues.”

While calling for a united front, Reyenieju said: “The journey toward transforming Nigeria’s oil and gas sector into a self-sufficient powerhouse is fraught with challenges, but it is a journey we must undertake with determination. The NCDMB’s initiatives should be viewed through the lens of long-term national interest. Let us support the board in its mission to build a resilient workforce, ensuring that Nigeria is not just a participant but a leader in the global oil and gas market.”