The Federal Government has launched a specialised PhD programme designed to build world-class energy experts locally while maintaining international standards.
The Petroleum Technology Development Fund on Wednesday formally flagged off its split-site PhD induction programme at the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna, marking a historic shift in Nigeria’s human capital development strategy for the energy sector.
The initiative, which began with the induction of 43 scholars at the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna, marks the first implementation of a “split-site” doctoral model designed to combine local academic training with international exposure.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of PTDF, Ahmed Aminu, said the initiative represents one of the most ambitious efforts yet to domesticate advanced petroleum education in Nigeria.
He said, “It is my honour and privilege to welcome you all to this induction programme, which marks the official commencement of academic activities at the Petroleum Technology Development Fund’s College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna. Let me begin by stating that what we are witnessing today is one of the proudest moments not only for the PTDF, but for every professional in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
“What you see around you, the facilities, this campus, and indeed this institution, is the result of many years of planning, investment, determination, and hard work, as well as the collective sacrifice of numerous individuals who have contributed to bringing the vision of CPESK to life.”
For decades, Nigeria has relied heavily on overseas training to build capacity in its oil and gas industry, with thousands of scholars sponsored under the PTDF’s Overseas Scholarship Scheme.
However, the new split-site PhD model signals a deliberate transition toward localising that expertise without sacrificing quality.
“As you may be aware, CPESK is one of the most ambitious initiatives of the PTDF. From its conception in 2009 to its current status as a specialised postgraduate institution, the College has been deliberately developed to serve as a centre of excellence for advanced energy education.
“Today, we declare boldly that CPESK is ready to domesticate the PTDF’s Overseas Scholarship Scheme at the highest level of academic excellence,” Aminu said.
Under the arrangement, scholars will undertake their studies partly in Nigeria and partly at partner institutions in the United Kingdom, including the University of Strathclyde, Robert Gordon University, and the University of Portsmouth.
“The split-site model, being implemented as a pilot programme of CPESK and the first of its kind in Nigeria, brings world-class international university education directly to our scholars within the country.
“Under this innovative arrangement, students will benefit from strong local academic mentorship, alongside direct exposure to some of the finest institutions in the United Kingdom, the University of Strathclyde, Robert Gordon University, and the University of Portsmouth,” he added.
The inaugural cohort reflects a highly competitive selection process, underscoring the programme’s focus on merit and excellence.
According to the PTDF boss, a total of 3,702 applications were received when the programme was advertised in May 2025.
“In May 2025, the PTDF advertised the Split-Site PhD programme in the national dailies, and a total of 3,702 applications were received. Following a thorough process of screening, shortlisting and merit-based assessment, 43 of you seated here today were successful and have been awarded the full PTDF scholarship,” he said.
To support the scholars, the Fund also appointed 43 academic advisers, many of them former PTDF scholars, with proven expertise to guide research and ensure continuity in academic supervision.
The College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna, is central to the government’s broader vision of strengthening local capacity in the energy sector.
Conceived in 2009, the institution has been developed as a specialised postgraduate centre focused on advanced research and innovation in oil, gas and emerging energy fields.
Aminu described the facility as the culmination of years of planning, investment and collaboration.
“What you see around you, the facilities, this campus, and indeed this institution, is the result of many years of planning, determination and hard work,” he said.
He added that the goal is to position CPESK as a globally competitive hub for energy education.
“I am confident that this institution will emerge as a leading centre for energy education, research and innovation in Nigeria and beyond,” he stated.
In his goodwill message, the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Abdullahi Ribadu, described the programme as a milestone for Nigeria’s university system and a boost for national development.
“This moment is significant not only for you, the scholars, but for the Nigerian university system and the nation at large,” Ribadu said.
He commended the PTDF for its sustained investment in human capital development, noting that the establishment of CPESK provides a permanent platform for postgraduate training within the country.
“The College will strengthen local expertise, reduce reliance on external training, and maintain global standards through its transnational partnerships,” he said.
Ribadu also revealed that the NUC had granted a licence for the institution to operate as a private university, describing the move as evidence of strong institutional collaboration.
“The recent licence granted for the establishment of CPESK demonstrates a clear commitment to building enduring capacity within Nigeria while aligning with international best practice,” he added.
Both officials charged the pioneer scholars to see themselves as key drivers of Nigeria’s future energy landscape.
“You are not here just to obtain a degree; you are ambassadors of the CPESK vision,” Aminu told the students.
“You are expected to demonstrate discipline, commitment and a strong pursuit of excellence. The knowledge and skills you acquire here should translate into meaningful contributions to the growth of our nation’s energy sector.”
Ribadu echoed similar sentiments, urging the scholars to uphold the reputation of the programme.
“As pioneers of this programme, your contributions will shape the reputation and impact of CPESK. I encourage you to approach your studies with a high sense of responsibility,”he said.
The launch of the programme comes at a time when Nigeria is seeking to reposition its oil and gas sector amid global energy transition pressures and increasing competition.
Experts have long identified a shortage of highly specialised skills, particularly in advanced petroleum engineering, energy economics and emerging technologies, as a constraint to growth.
By combining local training with international exposure, the PTDF initiative is expected to help bridge this gap while reducing the cost and logistical challenges associated with full overseas education.
The programme also aligns with broader government efforts to deepen local content, enhance research capacity and support innovation across the energy value chain.
With its blend of local grounding and global collaboration, the CPESK split-site PhD programme is being positioned as a model for future capacity-building initiatives in Nigeria.
For policymakers, the success of the scheme could redefine how the country develops expertise in critical sectors, shifting from dependence on foreign institutions to building sustainable knowledge systems at home.
