NCDMB Opens 2025/26 Innovation Challenge For Oil, Energy Solutions.

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has introduced the Nigerian Content Research, Innovation and Technology Challenge 2025/2026, inviting innovators, research bodies, academics, oil and gas service providers, and members of the public to submit technology-based proposals designed to address major challenges within the industry.

The initiative, which began in December 2025, aims to discover, support, and commercialise locally developed innovations within the oil and gas sector and related industries. Successful participants will gain admission into the NCDMB Technology Innovation and Incubation Centre, TIIC, situated in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

According to the Board, proposals submitted must correspond with approved thematic areas and key industry priorities. These cover Geological and Geophysical Studies, Local Materials Substitution, Technology Development, Health, Safety and Environment, Engineering Studies, and Renewable Energy.

Concerning geological and geophysical studies, attention will be placed on solutions connected to exploration, big data, and real-time logging data processing. Proposals under local materials substitution are expected to focus on sustainable materials for environmental remediation, cryogenic technology for liquefied natural gas (LNG), refining applications, and ultra-high temperature cementing.

For technology development, the Board is looking for innovations in digitalisation, Internet of Things applications for exploration and production, as well as condensate refining. Health, safety, and environmental submissions are expected to include carbon capture, utilisation and storage, produced water management, depollution technologies, and hydrogen production.

Entries centred on engineering should focus on enhanced oil recovery, refinery efficiency, laboratory analytical equipment, drilling technology, instrumentation, and control systems. Renewable energy submissions should address solar and wind technologies, together with energy storage solutions such as batteries, hydrogen, and thermal storage.

The Board stated that proposals, which must not exceed 1,500 words, should be submitted within one month of publication. From the total entries, 30 proposals will be selected for mentorship, reduced to 10 in the second phase, and finally trimmed to five finalists at the concluding pitch stage.

The top five winners will receive cash awards, mentorship, and media visibility, while the leading 10 participants will be enrolled into the TIIC for additional assistance towards commercialisation.