“In every challenge lies an opportunity for growth; my mission is to foster a culture of excellence and mentorship, driving both organizational success and the development of future leaders in our industry.”—Grace Kelvin Ofongo
Grace Kelvin Ofongo is a distinguished administrative leader with over 15 years of extensive experience in the oil and gas sector, currently serving as the Deputy Manager of Monitoring and Evaluation at the Nigerian Content Development & Monitoring Board (NCDMB). Her career is characterized by a robust trajectory marked by a commitment to operational excellence and a passion for mentoring talent. Grace’s role involves overseeing performance reviews and managing complex projects, where she utilizes her exceptional communication skills to foster collaboration both within her team and with external stakeholders.
Grace’s expertise encompasses a wide range of competencies, including project management, resource allocation, and performance monitoring. She is adept at prioritizing tasks to achieve organizational goals while optimizing operational processes. Her dedication to cultivating a productive work culture is evident in her proactive approach to training and mentoring emerging professionals, ensuring that her team is equipped to meet the challenges of a dynamic industry.
This commitment to nurturing talent has made her an invaluable asset within her organization.
Among her notable achievements, Grace was honored with the BAT Award of Excellence in 2024, an evidence to her outstanding contributions to the field. She has also received multiple accolades for her leadership within the Directorate of Monitoring & Evaluation, including recognition for her role in various successful initiatives and committees. Additionally, Grace has made significant scholarly contributions, with publications focusing on project evaluation and operational efficiency that highlight her thought leadership in the industry.
What truly sets Grace apart is her unique ability to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. She thrives in fast-paced environments, using critical thinking skills to analyze problems and develop effective solutions. Her involvement in professional organizations such as the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Society of Petroleum Engineers demonstrates her commitment to staying abreast of industry trends and best practices.
Looking towards the future, Grace aspires to advance into higher leadership roles where she can leverage her diverse skill set to drive innovation and strategic objectives. Her vision includes not only enhancing organizational performance but also contributing to broader industry advancements through continuous learning and collaboration. With a strong foundation in monitoring and evaluation practices, coupled with her unwavering dedication to professional growth, Grace Kelvin Ofongo stands poised to make significant contributions in any collaborative endeavor she undertakes.
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In this interview section, we delve into the professional journey of Grace Kelvin Ofongo, an accomplished administrative leader with over 15 years of experience in monitoring and evaluation within the oil and gas sector. Grace shares insights into her career trajectory, key skills, and notable achievements that have shaped her role at the Nigerian Content Development & Monitoring Board. Through a series of thought-provoking questions, we explore her approach to leadership, challenges faced, and aspirations for the future, highlighting her commitment to fostering a productive work culture and mentoring emerging talent.
Insights from Grace Kelvin Ofongo, an Industry Leader
Can you tell us about your journey into the field of monitoring and evaluation? What inspired you to pursue this career path?
Grace reflects on her journey: “My interest in monitoring and evaluation began during my undergraduate studies in Mechanical Engineering. I realized that effective project management and evaluation were crucial for the success of any engineering initiative. This realization led me to pursue further education in Oil, Gas, and Energy Management, where I saw firsthand the direct impact of monitoring practices on organizational growth. I was particularly inspired by the potential to drive efficiency and accountability within the oil and gas sector, which is vital for Nigeria’s economic development. The ability to analyze data and make informed decisions to enhance project outcomes truly inspired me to specialize in this field.”
What are some key responsibilities you have in your current role as Deputy Manager of Monitoring and Evaluation at NCDMB?
Grace explains: “In my current role, I oversee compliance monitoring for stakeholders in the oil and gas sector, ensuring adherence to the NOGICD Act 2010. This involves managing performance reviews, coordinating resources, and facilitating communication between departments to optimize operational processes. I also mentor junior staff, helping them develop their skills in evaluation practices. My daily responsibilities include analyzing compliance data, preparing reports for senior management, and leading initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency across various projects. Additionally, I engage with stakeholders to ensure they understand regulatory requirements and best practices.”
How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple projects simultaneously?
Grace shares her approach: “I utilize a combination of time management tools and techniques to prioritize tasks effectively. At the beginning of each week, I outline my key objectives and deadlines, breaking down larger projects into manageable tasks. I assess each task’s urgency and importance using a priority matrix, which helps me focus on high-impact activities while remaining flexible to address any urgent issues that arise. Regularly reviewing my progress allows me to adjust my priorities as needed, ensuring that I stay aligned with organizational goals while meeting project deadlines.”
Can you provide an example of a challenge you faced in your role and how you overcame it?
Grace recounts: “One significant challenge was a compliance issue that emerged during an audit of stakeholder operations. The audit revealed discrepancies in reporting that could have led to severe penalties for our stakeholders. I led a team to investigate the root cause, which involved analyzing data trends and interviewing key personnel across different departments. By fostering open communication and collaboration among team members, we identified gaps in adherence to standards. We implemented corrective actions that not only resolved the issue but also improved overall compliance rates moving forward. This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of teamwork and clear communication in overcoming challenges.”
What strategies do you employ to foster a productive work culture within your team?
Grace emphasizes: “I believe in leading by example and maintaining open lines of communication with my team. Regular check-ins, feedback sessions, and team-building activities help create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. I encourage team members to share their ideas and suggestions openly during our meetings, fostering a culture of innovation. Additionally, I promote continuous learning by providing opportunities for professional development through workshops and training sessions tailored to their interests and career goals.”
You’ve received several awards throughout your career. Which achievement are you most proud of, and why?
Grace reflects: “I have received several awards throughout my career, each of which holds a special place in my heart for different reasons. Among these, I am most proud of the Global Recognition Award 2024 and the BAT Award of Excellence in 2024. This award acknowledges my contributions to the monitoring and evaluation field and reflects my team’s collective efforts at the Nigerian Content Development & Monitoring Board. It symbolizes our commitment to driving operational excellence and fostering a culture of compliance within the oil and gas sector.In addition to this prestigious award, I have also received recognition for my work on various initiatives, including:
- Award on Completion of Asset Disposal Committee, which highlighted my leadership in executing critical projects that enhanced our operational efficiency.
- Award on Completion of NCDMB Creche, showcasing my dedication to improving workplace facilities for our employees and their families.
- Award for Most Hardworking in the Directorate of Monitoring & Evaluation, which reflects my commitment to excellence and consistent performance in my role.
Each of these awards represents not just personal milestones but also the collaborative spirit of my colleagues who have supported our initiatives. They motivate me to continue striving for excellence while mentoring others in our industry.”
How do you stay updated with industry trends and best practices in monitoring and evaluation?
Grace states: “I actively participate in professional organizations such as the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE). Attending conferences and workshops allows me to network with industry peers while learning about emerging trends that can be applied within my organization. Additionally, I regularly read scholarly articles, publications related to monitoring practices, and industry reports to stay informed about best practices. Engaging with thought leaders through webinars also helps me gain insights into innovative approaches being adopted globally.”
What role does mentorship play in your professional life, both as a mentor and a mentee?
Grace explains: “Mentorship is vital for personal and professional growth. As a mentor, I take pride in guiding junior colleagues by sharing my experiences and providing constructive feedback tailored to their individual strengths and areas for improvement. This reciprocal relationship fosters an environment where knowledge is exchanged freely. Conversely, I also seek mentorship from seasoned professionals who can offer insights into strategic leadership roles I aspire to achieve; their guidance has been instrumental in shaping my career path.”
Can you discuss a publication or project that significantly impacted your career?
Grace highlights: “One of my notable publications was on ‘Telecommuting: An Accommodation for People with Disabilities in Nigeria.’ This project not only showcased my research skills but also highlighted the importance of inclusivity in the workplace—an issue close to my heart as it aligns with my commitment to diversity and equal opportunity within professional environments. The publication opened doors for discussions on policy changes within organizations regarding flexible work arrangements, emphasizing how such initiatives can enhance productivity while supporting diverse talent.”
What skills do you consider essential for success in monitoring and evaluation roles?
Grace identifies: “Key skills include analytical thinking, attention to detail, effective communication, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills. Being able to interpret data accurately while communicating findings clearly is crucial for driving informed decision-making within organizations. Additionally, having a proactive approach toward problem-solving allows me to identify potential issues before they escalate into larger problems.”
Looking ahead, what are your professional aspirations for the next few years?
Grace shares her vision: “I aim to ascend into higher leadership roles where I can influence strategic decisions at an organizational level while driving innovation through enhanced monitoring practices. My goal is not only to improve operational performance but also to contribute meaningfully towards industry advancements through continuous learning and collaboration with other professionals.”
How do you balance your professional commitments with personal life? What strategies do you use?
Grace concludes: “Balancing work and personal life requires discipline and planning; it’s essential for maintaining overall well-being and productivity. I prioritize setting boundaries by designating specific times for work-related tasks while ensuring I allocate time for family activities and self-care routines like exercise or reading for pleasure. Utilizing digital tools like calendars helps me stay organized while reminding me of important personal commitments alongside professional obligations.”
Conclusion:
As we conclude this insightful interview with Grace Kelvin Ofongo, it is evident that her extensive experience and unwavering commitment to excellence make her a standout leader in the field of monitoring and evaluation. Throughout our discussion, Grace highlighted her impressive journey from an engineering background to becoming the Deputy Manager at the Nigerian Content Development & Monitoring Board, where she has excelled in optimizing operational processes and fostering a productive work culture.
Her dedication to mentoring talent, coupled with her notable achievements—including the BAT Award of Excellence and recognition by Bridge Africa Technologies as one of the Nigerians excelling abroad—illustrates her significant contributions to both her organization and the broader Nigerian community.
Grace’s ability to navigate challenges with resilience and her vision for future leadership roles reflect her potential to drive innovation and collaboration within the industry. As she continues to advance in her career, her commitment to lifelong learning and community engagement positions her as a valuable asset not only to Nigeria but also on the global stage. With leaders like Grace paving the way, the future looks promising for the next generation of professionals in the oil and gas sector.
