More than 549 temporary work permit applications by expatriates have been approved by the Nigeria Content Development and Monitoring Board.
The approvals were granted in the first three quarters of 2024, as reported in the board’s stakeholders’ magazine in Abuja.
During this period, 43 applications were rejected by the board.
The breakdown showed that 311 permit requests were accepted in Q1, with 32 denials; 72 approvals were given in Q2, with three denials; while Q3 saw 164 temporary work permits approved, and eight declined.
The report also mentioned that 184 expatriate jobs in the upstream segment and one job in the midstream are now being handled by Nigerians.
Additionally, 33 sanctions and violations were issued to companies in the oil sector across the three segments.
The board emphasized the importance of adhering to guidelines regarding expatriate employment in the oil and gas industry to promote local talent and participation.
The NCDMB remains dedicated to enhancing indigenous involvement in the sector and ensuring that foreign expertise complements rather than replaces local skills.
The NCDMB Executive Secretary highlighted the progress made in achieving a 56% local content level in the petroleum industry and emphasized the need for increased local investment and capacity building.