The Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Act 2010, signed into law in April, will promote fundamental changes in the way energy companies conduct operations in the country, it has been claimed.

In a review of the legislation, the International Law Office reports that there are several key provisions in the act that will help to increase the number of Nigerians working in the oil and gas sector.

Prominent among these provisions is that Nigerians will now be given first consideration for employment and training on any oil and gas project planned by firms working in the country.

"Operators and companies operating in the petroleum sector are required to employ only Nigerians in junior or intermediate roles, or any other corresponding grades designated by such companies," the group said.

The act also contains substantial penalties for non-compliance, including a fine of five per cent of the total project sum for any major infringement.

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