Africa Technology Conference 2026 Programme Announced as Event Heads to Côte d’Ivoire

– Special Africa Gas and Innova;ons Summit to Debut in Abidjan

The Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Africa has officially announced the programme for the 2nd Africa Technology Conference (ATC 2026), taking place 16–18 June 2026 in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

Following a successful inaugural ediPon in Tanzania in 2025, the conference will travel to West Africa for the first Pme, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, innovators and technical experts from across the conPnent and beyond, under the theme: “Harnessing

Innova.on and Technology for a Resilient and Sustainable African Energy Sector.”

H.E. Mamadou Sangafowa Coulibaly, Minister of Mines, Petroleum and Energy of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, has confirmed his support and parPcipaPon who will, alongside senior representaPves, aYend the three-day event and deliver an opening keynote address to delegates, se[ng the stage for criPcal conversaPons on the future of Africa’s energy sector.

A major new addiPon to the 2026 programme will be the launch of the Africa Gas and Innova;ons Summit, taking place on Day Two of the conference. The dedicated summit will focus on the theme: “Accelera.ng Africa’s Gas Revolu.on: Innova.ons, Partnerships and Sustainable Growth.”

The new summit will spotlight the growing role of natural gas in Africa’s energy future, exploring how innovaPon, strategic partnerships and investment can support energy access, industrial growth and long-term sustainability across the conPnent.

ATC 2026 brings together industry leaders, policymakers and innovators to drive progress across Africa’s evolving energy sector.

Delegates will hear from influenPal keynote speakers, join high-level panel discussions and explore technical presentaPons, case studies and emerging technologies shaping the future of energy in Africa.

Alongside the conference sessions, ATC 2026 will also provide valuable networking opportuniPes and an exhibiPon and innovaPon showcase, giving aYendees the chance to connect, collaborate and discover new ideas and technologies from across the industry.

Riverson Oppong, SPE Africa Regional Director and ATC 2026 Conference Chair, highlighted the significance of Côte d’Ivoire hosPng the second ediPon of the conference, commenPng: “Côte d’Ivoire represents one of the most exciPng and forward-looking energy markets in Africa today. The country’s growing influence within the regional energy sector, combined with its commitment to innovaPon, infrastructure development and sustainable growth, makes Abidjan the ideal host city for the second Africa Technology Conference.”

He conPnued; “ATC 2026 will build on the momentum of our inaugural ediPon by creaPng an even stronger plaborm for collaboraPon, knowledge-sharing and technology advancement across Africa’s energy industry. We are parPcularly excited to introduce the new Africa Gas and InnovaPons Summit, which will bring together leaders and innovators to explore how gas can help accelerate economic growth, energy security and sustainability across the conPnent. Delegates can look forward to three days of impacbul discussions, cu[ng-edge technologies, strategic partnerships and unparalleled networking opportuniPes.”

To explore the full programme and register to aYend, visit the Africa Technology Conference Official Website.

Contact:

Email: info@africatechnologyconference.com

Website: www.africatechnologyconference.com

Trust and the Nigerian State (Part I)

Trust as National Infrastructure

By Sola Adebawo

When nations think about infrastructure, they usually imagine roads, power plants, ports, railways, and digital networks. These are the visible systems that move goods, power industries, and connect markets. But beneath these physical assets lies another form of infrastructure—one far less visible but equally essential to the functioning of a modern state. That infrastructure is trust.

Trust is the quiet mechanism that allows institutions to function without constant resistance. It is the invisible currency that enables citizens to accept difficult decisions, comply with regulations, and believe that the state acts in the collective interest. Without trust, even well-designed policies struggle to gain legitimacy. With it, societies are able to navigate reform, conflict, and economic change with far less friction.

Nigeria’s governance challenges are often framed in terms of infrastructure deficits, fiscal constraints, or institutional capacity. While these are real concerns, they sometimes obscure a deeper issue: the fragile relationship between citizens and the state. In many instances, public reactions to policy decisions are shaped not only by the substance of those decisions but by the level of trust citizens place in the institutions implementing them.

In this sense, trust functions as a form of national infrastructure. It stabilizes governance, reduces conflict between citizens and the state, and enables institutions to carry out their mandates effectively. When trust is strong, governments can implement reforms that require short-term sacrifice for long-term gain. When trust is weak, even necessary reforms encounter suspicion and resistance.

The ongoing debate around electricity tariffs illustrates this dynamic clearly.

Nigeria’s electricity sector has long struggled with structural financial challenges. Power generation companies require adequate revenue to sustain operations. Distribution companies must invest in infrastructure to maintain and expand the grid. Regulators argue that tariffs must gradually reflect the real cost of electricity if the sector is to become financially viable.

From a policy perspective, this argument has merit. An industry cannot function sustainably if consumers consistently pay below the cost of service delivery. Yet the public response to tariff adjustments often reveals a deeper governance problem.

For many Nigerians, electricity bills have risen over time while power supply remains unreliable. Businesses and households continue to rely heavily on generators despite paying higher tariffs to distribution companies. In practical terms, the lived experience of electricity consumers often feels like an imbalance: the financial obligations increase, but the benefits remain uncertain.

This perception matters.

Citizens do not evaluate policies solely through technical or economic frameworks. They evaluate them through everyday experience. When the burden on citizens appears to grow without visible improvements in service delivery, the narrative quickly shifts from economic necessity to institutional unfairness.

The result is a widening trust gap.

Consumers begin to question whether the system is functioning in their interest. Distribution companies point to generation constraints. Regulators emphasize sector reform. Government officials speak about long-term sustainability. Meanwhile, citizens experience higher bills alongside persistent power outages.

Even if the underlying policy logic is sound, the absence of visible progress in service delivery weakens confidence in the institutions responsible for managing the sector. Over time, the debate ceases to be purely about tariffs. It becomes a referendum on institutional credibility.

This pattern is not unique to the electricity sector. Across multiple areas of governance, similar dynamics appear whenever citizens feel that the system demands more from them without delivering proportionate benefits.

Trust becomes fragile when obligations rise faster than outcomes.

The implications of this are significant for governance. Policies that require citizens to accept higher costs, stricter regulations, or economic adjustments must be accompanied by clear evidence that the system is moving toward better outcomes. Without that evidence, even technically correct policies struggle to command legitimacy.

Equally important is the role of communication. In complex policy environments, citizens depend on institutions to explain not only what decisions are being made but why they are necessary. When communication between regulators, service providers, and the public becomes fragmented or inconsistent, confusion quickly gives way to suspicion.

Transparency therefore becomes a central pillar of trust infrastructure. Citizens are far more likely to accept difficult decisions when they believe the process behind those decisions is transparent and accountable.

But transparency alone is not enough. Trust ultimately depends on the alignment between what institutions promise and what citizens experience. If the gap between policy assurances and lived reality becomes too wide, credibility begins to erode.

Nigeria’s governance environment demonstrates how delicate this balance can be. Citizens frequently navigate a landscape where formal institutions coexist with informal coping mechanisms. Businesses run generators alongside grid electricity. Communities develop local arrangements to address gaps in public services. In such contexts, institutional credibility must constantly compete with everyday experience.

This is why trust should be treated as a strategic national asset rather than an abstract ideal.

Just as roads require maintenance and power plants require investment, trust requires deliberate institutional stewardship. Governments must recognize that legitimacy is built not only through policy design but through consistent evidence that institutions act fairly, transparently, and competently.

Where citizens believe this to be true, reforms gain acceptance and governance becomes easier. Where that belief weakens, even the most well-intentioned policies encounter resistance.

Nigeria’s development conversation often focuses on physical infrastructure deficits. Yet the strength of the country’s institutional trust architecture may ultimately determine whether those investments translate into sustainable progress.

Electricity can power cities. Roads can move goods. But without trust in the institutions that manage them, the full promise of development remains difficult to realize.

In the end, nations are not held together by policy alone. They are held together by the confidence citizens place in the fairness and credibility of the systems that govern them.

_______________________________

Sola Adebawo is an accomplished energy executive and public affairs leader with extensive experience in the oil and gas industry. He has led Government, Joint Venture, and External Relations strategy, shaping policy engagement and strengthening stakeholder alignment across public, regulatory, and commercial institutions. An author, scholar, and ordained minister, he writes on social, economic, and cultural issues, strategic communication, and principled leadership.

Nigeria’s Demographic Time Bomb

By Sola Adebawo

Nigeria is often described as a country of immense promise. A vast population, abundant resources, and an energetic youth culture have long fueled the belief that the country’s future could be extraordinary. Yet buried within that promise is a looming question that policymakers can no longer afford to ignore: will Nigeria’s demographic expansion become an economic dividend or a destabilizing force?

By mid-century, Nigeria’s population is projected to exceed 400 million people, making it one of the most populous nations on earth, alongside countries like India and China. Demographically, this is an extraordinary shift. Nigeria is already the most populous country in Africa, and its population growth trajectory is among the fastest globally.

At first glance, such growth could be an advantage. Economists often speak of the “demographic dividend,” a period when a country’s working-age population grows larger relative to dependents. When properly harnessed, this dynamic can accelerate economic growth, expand productivity, and transform national prosperity. Countries such as South Korea and Singapore famously leveraged this demographic moment to fuel rapid industrialization and sustained economic expansion.

But demographic dividends do not emerge automatically. They must be engineered through deliberate policy choices. Education systems must equip young people with relevant skills. Economies must generate enough productive jobs to absorb expanding labor forces. Governance systems must ensure stability and opportunity.

This is precisely where Nigeria’s challenge lies.

Nigeria’s population is growing much faster than its economy’s capacity to absorb labor productively. Each year, millions of young Nigerians enter the labor market, many with aspirations that reflect the optimism and ambition of youth. Yet the structure of the economy struggles to keep pace with these expectations.

Formal job creation remains limited. The economy is heavily reliant on the oil sector, which generates substantial revenue but relatively few jobs. Meanwhile, manufacturing has yet to develop at the scale required to employ large segments of the workforce. The result is an economy where the informal sector absorbs the majority of new entrants, often in low-productivity activities that offer limited pathways to long-term prosperity.

The implications of this imbalance are already visible. Youth unemployment and underemployment remain stubbornly high. Many young Nigerians navigate precarious livelihoods in urban centers where opportunity is uneven and competition intense. Cities such as Lagos and Abuja continue to expand rapidly, drawing migrants from across the country in search of economic possibility. Yet infrastructure, housing, and services frequently struggle to keep pace with this urban surge.

Demography, in itself, is neither destiny nor disaster. But when economic structures fail to keep pace with population growth, demographic pressure can amplify existing vulnerabilities. Large populations of economically frustrated youth can create fertile ground for social unrest, migration pressures, and political instability.

Nigeria has already witnessed how economic exclusion can intersect with insecurity. From insurgency in the northeast to banditry and communal conflicts across various regions, insecurity often thrives in environments where governance is weak and economic opportunity scarce. While these challenges have complex causes, youth marginalization frequently forms part of the underlying landscape.

Yet it would be deeply mistaken to view Nigeria’s demographic expansion solely through the lens of risk. Properly harnessed, Nigeria’s youth population could become one of the most powerful engines of economic growth anywhere in the world.

Young Nigerians are already shaping vibrant sectors such as technology, entertainment, and digital services. The country’s creative industries command global attention. Its tech entrepreneurs are building companies that attract international investment and innovation. Nigerian professionals in the diaspora continue to demonstrate the global competitiveness of the country’s human capital.

The question, therefore, is not whether Nigeria has talent or potential. It clearly does. The real question is whether the nation’s institutions, policies, and economic structures can convert that potential into large-scale productivity.

Achieving this transformation will require a strategic shift in economic thinking.

First, Nigeria must place far greater emphasis on labor-intensive sectors capable of absorbing large numbers of workers. Agriculture, agro-processing, manufacturing, and construction remain critical avenues for mass employment if supported by infrastructure, financing, and coherent industrial policy.

Second, the country’s education system must align more closely with economic realities. Too many graduates leave institutions without the technical, vocational, and digital skills demanded by modern economies. Expanding skills development and vocational pathways could help bridge this gap.

Third, governance reform remains essential. Economic growth does not occur in a vacuum. Investors require stability, regulatory clarity, and credible institutions before committing long-term capital. Strengthening governance frameworks is therefore not merely a political exercise; it is an economic necessity.

Finally, Nigeria must embrace a forward-looking vision that treats its youth population as an asset to be cultivated rather than a burden to be managed.

History offers important lessons. Countries that successfully harness demographic expansion rarely do so by accident. They succeed because leaders recognize demographic change early and align economic policy accordingly.

Nigeria stands at such a moment today.

The country’s demographic trajectory cannot easily be altered in the short term. The real choice lies elsewhere. Nigeria can either build the institutions, industries, and opportunities necessary to transform its youth population into a demographic dividend. Or it can allow structural weaknesses to persist until demographic pressure magnifies them into a destabilizing force.

In the end, the numbers themselves are not the real story.

The real story will be whether Nigeria’s leaders understand what those numbers demand.

_______________________________

Sola Adebawo is an accomplished energy executive and public affairs leader with extensive experience in the oil and gas industry. He has led Government, Joint Venture, and External Relations strategy, shaping policy engagement and strengthening stakeholder alignment across public, regulatory, and commercial institutions. An author, scholar, and ordained minister, he writes on social, economic, and cultural issues, strategic communication, and principled leadership.

Shell companies in Nigeria underlined their participation at the 8th Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) in Abuja with a high-profile exhibition that hosted dignitaries among them the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) Senator Henieken Lokpobiri.

The Minister was briefed on the range of Shell businesses in Nigeria and recent investments in gas by The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC) and in deep-water oil production by Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited, (SNEPCo). Senator Lokpobiri expressed his appreciation for the continued confidence in Nigeria’s energy sector.

The exhibition featured a medical stand which was organised as part of Shell’s Health-in-Motion programme. A team of doctors, opticians, laboratory scientists, and nurses provided healthcare services to hundreds of visitors including conference attendees and members of the public, conducting health checks, tests and treatments. More than 300 medicated glasses were given out in addition to eyecare treatments for nearly 400 people.

The exhibition at NIES was part of the overall Shell support for NIES this year of which the company was a Platinum sponsor. Shell also won the Best Upstream Company 2024 award at the Summit.

“We’re pleased to be part of the Nigeria International Energy Summit which showcases the country’s oil and gas potentials to the world,” Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria and Managing Director SPDC, Osagie Okunbor said. “Consistent with our support for previous conferences, Shell was Platinum sponsor of the 2025 edition in addition to staging a well-received exhibition and our staff participating meaningfully in plenary and workshop sessions. We hope that the insights and suggestions at the conference will support efforts to reform the industry and attract investments.”

Welcome Address By Ambassador Nicholas Agbo Ella, Permanent Secretary, Ministry Of Petroleum Resources, At The 8th Edition Of The Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES 2025)

Protocols …
Your Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Esteemed Industry Leaders, Captains of Industry, Partners, Colleagues, Ladies, and Gentlemen.

It is a profound honor and a distinct privilege to welcome you to the 8th Edition of the Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES 2025).

On behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, I extend my warmest regards and deepest appreciation to all our distinguished delegates, strategic partners, esteemed industry leaders, and stakeholders who have traveled from across the globe to participate in this defining moment for Nigeria and Africa’s energy future.

Since its inception in 2018, NIES has evolved into Nigeria’s flagship energy platform, cementing its status as the country’s only government-sanctioned oil and gas summit.

Endorsed at the highest levels of government, NIES has consistently served as a catalyst for energy policy evolution, market-driven strategies, and sustainable development.

The summit’s success is evident in its growth from a national gathering into a globally recognized platform that bridges continents and sectors.

The past seven editions have set a strong foundation for the 8th Edition, instilling confidence in NIES 2025’s potential.

This year’s theme, “Bridging Continents: Connecting Investors Worldwide with Africa’s Energy Potential,” serves as a global call to action for cooperation and strategic investments.

Africa, with its vast energy resources, is at a crossroads of immense opportunities and the global push for sustainable energy solutions.

Nigeria, as the continent’s largest oil producer and a leading gas powerhouse, is committed to playing a pivotal role in this evolving energy landscape.

In line with our commitment to advancing Africa’s energy security and growth, I am pleased to highlight Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to establish the African Energy Bank (AEB).

This landmark initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Petroleum Resources in collaboration with the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO), aims to create a dedicated financial institution focused on unlocking energy investments across the continent.

The AEB will serve as a vital funding vehicle to bridge Africa’s energy infrastructure gaps, catalyze upstream, midstream, and downstream projects, and drive sustainable energy solutions that align with the continent’s unique needs.

Furthermore, as part of Nigeria’s proactive approach to energy transition and innovation, the Ministry, in collaboration with the Foundation for Sustainable Social Responsibility in Emerging Africa (FOSSREA), hosted the country’s first-ever International Hydrogen Conference from Tuesday, 26th to Thursday, 28th November 2024, at the State House Banquet Hall – Aso Villa, Abuja.

This groundbreaking event convened experts, policymakers, and investors from across the globe to explore hydrogen’s transformative role in Africa’s energy mix.

The conference underscored Nigeria’s ambition to position itself as a leader in hydrogen energy development.

Nigeria will focus on leveraging its vast natural gas resources as a feedstock for blue hydrogen while exploring green hydrogen opportunities powered by renewables.

Nigeria’s strategic focus on natural gas as a transitional fuel aligns with global decarbonization goals while unlocking new economic opportunities.

Our National Gas Expansion Program (NGEP), Nigeria Gas Transportation Network Code, and the Decade of Gas initiative have laid the foundation for transformative projects to boost domestic gas utilization, reduce flaring, and foster industrialization.

With the surging global demand for cleaner fuels, Nigeria strategically positions itself as a reliable partner in the worldwide energy transition.

The numbers from the 2024 edition underscore the significance and impact of NIES:

Over 5,000 participants from 45 countries—representing government delegations, IOCs, NOCs, independent producers, service companies, financiers, and policymakers.

A sprawling 4,182 square meters of dedicated exhibition space that showcased cutting-edge technologies, innovative solutions, and investment opportunities.

More than 60 plenary sessions, technical workshops, and panel discussions covering critical topics like energy transition, decarbonization, upstream investments, refining capacity, natural gas monetization, and digital transformation.

Over $2.5 billion in investment deals and MOUs signed on the sidelines of the event, further cementing NIES as a tangible driver of growth and development in Africa’s energy sector.

The energy sector globally is at an inflection point, and Africa stands at the forefront of this shift.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Africa’s energy demand is expected to grow by 60% by 2040, driven by population growth, urbanization, and industrialization.

This underscores the urgency and importance of summits like NIES, where critical stakeholders convene to co-create pathways that balance energy security, affordability, and sustainability.

Allow me to extend my deepest appreciation to all who have contributed to the success of this summit:

To the parastatals, regulatory bodies, and agencies within Nigeria’s energy ecosystem, NUPRC, NMDPRA, NCDMB, PTDF, PTI, NNRA, and our Sister Ministries and Agencies from other sectors, your joint support for the hosting of this event exemplifies the collaboration that is vital for sectoral growth.

To our strategic partners and sponsors, your continued support amplifies NIES’s global reach and impact.

I extend special gratitude to Brevity Anderson, the event producers, for their unwavering commitment and organizational excellence, which have once again delivered a world-class summit.

To the Local Organizing Committee, your tireless dedication and meticulous planning have ensured that NIES 2025 stands out as a landmark event.

As we embark on this multi-day journey of thought leadership, dialogue, and deal-making, I urge all participants to leverage the unique opportunities NIES offers:

Engage in meaningful collaborations that can lead to transformative investments.

Participate in policy-shaping dialogues that align with Nigeria and Africa’s energy goals.

Explore the exhibitions to witness the future of energy, from AI-driven exploration tools to cutting-edge renewable technologies.

Most importantly, contribute to the shared vision of an inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous energy future for Nigeria, Africa, and the world.

In closing, I reiterate the Federal Government of Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to fostering an enabling environment for investment, innovation, and sustainable development in the energy sector.

Today’s challenges, from fluctuating global oil prices to the urgent need for decarbonization, are formidable.

Yet, within these challenges lie opportunities for collaboration, growth, and transformation.

The government is ready to support and facilitate these opportunities.

Tinubu’s Policies Spur Investment as Nigeria Attracts $5 Billion in Oil & Gas Sector

Nigeria’s oil and gas sector is experiencing renewed investor confidence under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, with policies enabling companies to invest and divest freely. This shift has facilitated the completion of major divestment projects by international oil companies (IOCs), including Oando, Seplat, Equinor, and Renaissance (Shell), signaling Nigeria’s attractiveness as a prime investment destination.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) on Tuesday, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, emphasized that the country has built strong local content capacity to sustain operations post-divestment.

“No IOC is leaving Nigeria entirely. At worst, they are shifting focus to deep offshore projects, which remain beyond the capacity of indigenous producers for now,” the Minister stated.

Speaking further he said Nigeria now secures three out of every four major investment decisions made in Africa’s energy sector.
– A $5 billion investment announcement underscores the success of government policies in driving economic growth.

Sen. Lokpobiri further said, the slowdown in investments from the Global North necessitates alternative funding strategies within Africa.

He said, “Africa must complement external funding by securing its own investments in oil and gas projects.

The Minister stated that the long-awaited African Energy Bank Set is expected to commence operations in Q1 2025.

He said, ” The institution aims to provide financing solutions for oil and gas investments across the continent.

The Minister stated that Nigeria has increased crude oil production from approximately 1 million barrels per day (bpd) in early 2024 to over 1.8 million bpd.
– The gas sector is also experiencing significant expansion.

He added that President Tinubu’s subsidy removal policy has led to market-driven fuel pricing.

He stated that the NNPC remains responsible for PMS supply amid increasing competition in the sector.

Lokpobiri commended President Tinubu’s decisive reforms, stating that despite initial resistance from neighboring countries like Chad and Cameroon, Nigeria is now in a stronger economic position.

He urged African nations to collaborate in bridging the technology and finance gaps needed to enhance energy security.

As Nigeria prepares for further discussions at the NIES summit, the Minister stressed the importance of competitive fiscal and regulatory regimes to attract long-term investment. “Africa must focus on strategic partnerships to develop its vast oil and gas potential before fully transitioning to renewable energy,” he concluded

Nigeria Strengthens Position as Africa’s Energy Hub – NNPC GCEO

As Africa’s leading oil and gas producer, Nigeria remains a dominant force in the global energy market, playing a crucial role in shaping the future of gas as a transition fuel.

Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, reaffirmed this commitment during his presentation at the opening ceremony of the Nigerian International Energy Summit in Abuja on Tuesday.

Kyari emphasized that Africa is increasingly being recognized as the next frontier for global energy production, with its vast mineral resources playing a pivotal role in the energy transition.

He stated that despite Nigeria’s current GDP of $1 trillion, the oil and gas sector will continue to be the backbone of the economy, driving growth and investment.

“Our domestic gas infrastructure is expanding rapidly, and the country is making significant strides in ensuring that gas is readily available for industrial, commercial, and household use,” Kyari stated.

He highlighted that gas remains the most viable transition fuel, offering a cleaner, more sustainable alternative for cooking, power generation, and industrial applications.

The NNPC GCEO underscored that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has laid the groundwork for a stable investment climate through strategic fiscal policies, including an executive order on non-associated gas and incentives to attract investors.

He noted that ongoing tax reforms have eliminated bureaucratic bottlenecks, providing a more predictable and attractive business environment.

“Investors are not CSR organizations; they are here for returns.

“What we have done is to provide them with the assurance of a stable fiscal environment, and that is why they are coming into the country,” Kyari said.

On energy security, he stressed that the Petroleum Industry Act mandates NNPC to ensure Nigeria’s energy stability.

This, he said, includes supplying gas for electricity generation, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and other energy sources.

“NNPC is required by law to stabilize the market and bridge any gaps in energy security.

“We remain committed to this mandate and will not be distracted by unnecessary controversies,” he added, referencing recent viral discussions in the industry.

Kyari further reiterated Nigeria’s ambition to lead Africa’s energy interconnection through gas infrastructure projects that will strengthen regional supply and position the country as the continent’s energy hub.

“With a growing middle class and increasing energy demand, Nigeria has the potential to drive economic transformation not just within its borders but across Africa.

“Our focus remains on expanding our influence and ensuring sustainable energy security,” Kyari stated.

NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL ENERGY SUMMIT (NIES) – MINISTERIAL WELCOME DINNER

Remarks from Mr. Abdulrazaq Isa, OFR (Chairman, IPPG)

Your Excellencies, Captains of Industry, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen. Kindly permit me to stand on already established protocols for the evening.

1. On behalf of IPPG, it is with great pleasure to once again deliver this Sponsor’s remark at the Ministerial Welcome dinner of the 8th Edition of the Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES). IPPG is deeply honoured to be a part of this year’s summit as the Premium Partner. For this, we extend our profound appreciation to the Honourable Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri and the Honourable Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo.

2. Let me also take this opportunity to welcome you all this evening, particularly our foreign dignitaries and partners who have made the journey to be present here with us in Abuja. I especially welcome the OPEC Secretary General, H.E. Haitham Al Ghais and the Secretary General of African Petroleum Producers Organisation (APPO), Dr. Omar Ibrahim. I also would like to acknowledge the presence of the Chairman, OPEC Board of Governors, Mr. Ademola Adeyemi-Bero, who also happens to be a Trustee of IPPG and its Pioneer Chairman.

3. Notwithstanding the informal and relaxing atmosphere, this Welcome Dinner provides a great platform to exchange ideas and co-create solutions to some of the key challenges facing our industry. It also sets the tone for what promises to be another exciting and impactful Summit with meaningful conversations and forged collaborations capable of shaping Africa’s energy future.

4. At last year’s Sponsor’s Dinner, IPPG strongly advocated for the siting of the Africa Energy Bank’s (AEB) Headquarters in Nigeria. That plea has become a reality today and I would like to once again specially recognise the efforts of the Honourable Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, who passionately and tirelessly championed this cause. I equally extend our appreciation to APPO and African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) for the laudable initiative of establishing the Africa Energy Bank. This establishment of the AEB is a victory for the entire continent and symbolises our collective effort to build a prosperous and sustainable energy future for Africa. This will enable the continent look inward and deepen collaboration in charting a course for meeting its energy needs. We eagerly look forward to the formal take-off of the bank later this year.

5. This year’s Summit is holding at a very momentous period for the Nigeria oil and gas industry. The ongoing industry reforms embarked by the Government continues to gather momentum and are delivering tangible results. Most notably, the conclusion of the IOC divestments, a worthy achievement marking a defining moment for the industry and nation. Nigerian independents now dominate the prolific onshore and shallow water acreages, with a significant increase in their contributions to the nation’s crude oil and production. For IPPG, this transformational shift represents a promising future and an emerging role for the Group.

New Logo Unveiling

6. It is on that note that this new beginning, a pivotal moment of our journey, coincides with the unveiling of our new logo in the presence of our distinguished guests this evening. Since our establishment about a decade ago, IPPG has been committed to the renaissance and advancement of the Nigerian oil and gas industry. Our new logo is a testament to this mandate and a reflection of our re-dedicated commitment to the industry and Nigeria underpinned by our desire to create an industry that is a source of national pride, enhancing our global image and relevance. It is therefore my utmost pleasure to unveil this new logo as we look forward to the path ahead and collaborating for Energy Prosperity.

7. Let me conclude by thanking the organizers for putting together this Welcome Dinner. Please enjoy every bit of the evening. Bon Appetite and thank you for your attention.

Abdulrazaq Isa OFR Chairman,
IPPG
Abuja, 24 th February 2025