By Godson Umejiego, Correspondent USA and Precious John, Special Correspondent
Having operated and maintained assets, deployed and trained workforces in remote locations around the world, and building on years of experience in Nigeria, PIC Group has entered into a 5-year service agreement with Azikel Petroleum Ltd. for the new Azikel Refinery to be located in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.
Under the terms of the agreement, PIC Group will provide Operations and Maintenance (O&M) support services including site-specific integrated operation & maintenance procedures, a systematic approach to training as well as operational support in the form of oversight and mentoring of refinery personnel by PIC Group’s specialists. PIC Group’s thorough and sustainable qualification programs combined with a comprehensive approach to organizational development will enable the new Azikel Refinery to efficiently transition from commissioning and startup through to full operation as well as facilitate staff localization for the new 12,000 bpd hydroskimming refinery.
“PIC Group’s O&M experience, approach to site-specific qualification programmes and precise site-specific procedural documentation, creates a consistent base of knowledge for the Azikel Refinery to improve efficiency, and ensure reliable, consistent, safe operation,” said Executive Director and VP Refinery at Azikel Petroleum, Ian Anderson.
“PIC Group’s systematic methodology for knowledge transfer embraces Azikel’s vision of self-performance and will empower the local community to lead the long-term operation of the facility while maintaining operational readiness and regulatory compliance across the lifecycle of the refinery,” said President and CEO at PIC Group, Frank Avery.
Azikel Group President Dr. Eruani Azibapu Godbless said, “Training of our staff was of paramount importance to Azikel in our selection of the O&M services contractor, and we are very pleased with the comprehensive programme proposed by the PIC Group.”
