Unique Group Enters into West Africa JV

Subsea and offshore solution provider Unique Group said it has formed a joint venture (JV) with Nigeria-based Charkin Maritime & Offshore Safety Ltd, a professional training company for the maritime and offshore oil and gas industries.

The newly formed JV, Unique Charkin System Ltd, based out of Port Harcourt in Nigeria, offers a full range of support to the oil and gas market in Nigeria and will further extend services into Sub-Saharan Africa.

Although already active in the region for some time, the partnership creates a dedicated office for Unique Group in the region, bringing enhanced accessibility and reduced response time for customers. Unique Group’s divisions, namely, Survey Equipment, Diving & Life Support, Buoyancy & Ballast, On-Site Engineering and Specialized Boats will be active from the Port Harcourt office.

The new operations will be managed by Mark Severn, who will head up Business Development. Mark brings 26 years’ experience in the oil & gas industry, working on numerous offshore marine construction projects.

Mark Severn commented, “This new venture represents an excellent fit for both Unique Group and Charkin Maritime & Offshore Safety Ltd. It positions us well for further expansion in the African region and the permanent base in Nigeria will facilitate a better relationship and offering for our local clients.

“Unique Group holds a large range of products which will now be more accessible for customers in the area. It is an exciting time for both companies and we look forward to the future while supporting the oil and gas industry in the region.”

Sir Charles K Wami, CEO of Charkin Maritime & Offshore Safety Ltd, commented, “Partnering with Unique Group extends our global presence and together we can continue to deliver products and services which are among the best in the world.  The in-depth industry knowledge and work ethic held by Unique Group is an example of excellence industry-wide.

“Through the joint venture, we are also aiming to empower the local youth to enhance their maritime skills, thereby opening the path to improved maritime job prospects in Africa as well as further bolstering the region’s economy.”