NCDMB Launches 2025/2026 Tech Innovation Challenge for Oil and Gas Sector
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has unveiled the 2025/2026 Nigerian Content Research, Innovation, and Technology Challenge, a major opportunity for Nigerians with innovative ideas that can solve technological gaps in the oil and gas industry and related sectors.
The competition, which began in December 2025, is open to individual innovators, startups, research institutions, academics, industry suppliers, and members of the public with practical and market-ready ideas.
Who Can Apply and Why It Matters
This initiative is designed to turn local ideas into commercial solutions, strengthen Nigerian content, and reduce reliance on foreign technologies. Successful applicants will be supported to refine their innovations and connect with investors.
“The innovators will present their business pitches and demos to corporate venture capitalists to invest, drive innovation and expand market reach. -NCDMB
Key Thematic Areas to Focus On
Proposals must align with approved industry priorities, including:
- Geological & Geophysical Studies: exploration solutions, big data, real-time logging
- Local Materials Substitution: LNG cryogenic technology, environmental remediation materials
- Technology Development: IoT for exploration and production, demulsification, condensate refining
- Health, Safety & Environment (HSE): carbon capture, produced water management, hydrogen production
- Engineering: enhanced oil recovery, drilling technology, refinery efficiency
- Renewable Energy: solar, wind, and energy storage systems (batteries, hydrogen, molten salts)
How to Be Part of the Challenge
Interested participants must submit a proposal not exceeding 1,500 words within one month of publication. Submissions should include:
- Name of individual/company or institution
- Thematic area and innovation title
- Description and objectives
- Team structure
- Funding model and marketing plan
- Risk analysis
What Successful Participants Will Gain
- 30 proposals will be shortlisted in the first stage and paired with mentors
- 10 finalists will advance to the second stage
- Top 5 winners will receive cash prizes, mentorship, and media exposure
- Top 10 participants will be onboarded into the Technology Innovation and Incubation Centre (TIIC) in Yenagoa for further development and commercialization
This challenge is a golden opportunity for Nigerian innovators to access funding, mentorship, and global visibility while contributing solutions that can transform the oil, gas, and energy sectors. If you have an idea with real impact, this is your chance to take it from concept to market.
