Yemis Izuora/Ijeoma Agudosi
FMC Technologies, Inc. the leading global provider of technology solutions for the energy industry, said it has delivered its first 4 subsea wellheads fabricated entirely in Nigeria.
The equipment, manufactured for the Egina project, operated by Total, is the result of the company’s dedication to developing local capabilities among its supply chain partners in Nigeria.
The wellheads were fabricated for FMC Technologies by Oiltools Africa Limited (OAL), an indigenous Nigerian company and feature a 36” diameter conductor housing and a 20” diameter wellhead assembly.
The wellhead fabrication project was conducted from start to finish by a team of 44 OAL employees (all Nigerians) and was completed on time and without any safety incidents.
Fabrication activities conducted by the OAL team included cutting, bevelling, assembling, welding, grinding, heat treatment and painting.
To achieve this milestone, FMC Technologies worked intensively with OAL to deliver technical training to the Nigerian personnel involving the advanced welding techniques and post-weld heat treatment procedures required for the manufacturing process.
“This local manufacturing of these wellheads marks a significant milestone for the company and for the country’s energy industry,” said Shelagh Daley, Area Manager at FMC Technologies.
FMC Technologies is contributing to the development of the Nigerian economy by not only harnessing and utilising the country’s natural resources, but also by employing and developing skilled local professionals. FMC Technologies’ operations in Nigeria are responsible for more than 2,250 jobs in Nigeria, including employees and through our supply chain.”
FMC Technologies began its operations in Nigeria in the year 2000 and has provided equipment for a number of major subsea projects including OKONO, Agbami, Bonga NW and Egina.
The company has been an integral part of Nigeria’s economy for over 15 years, providing reliable subsea systems for Nigeria’s offshore fields, developing career opportunities, expanding relationships with local businesses, and building an impressive record of safety milestones.