The Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) has called
for deeper collaboration, technological innovation and resilient policies to
enable Nigeria compete effectively in the rapidly changing global energy
industry.
Speaking at the opening of the 49th Nigeria Annual
International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE 2026) in Lagos, Chairman of the
SPE Nigeria Council, Francis Nwaochei, said the country's long-term success
would depend on strong leadership, sound regulation and sustained cooperation
among government, industry operators and other stakeholders.
Held under the theme, "Thriving in the
Evolving Global Energy Landscape: Collaborative Growth and Resilience,"
the conference brought together policymakers, regulators, industry executives,
investors, researchers and students to discuss the future of Nigeria's energy
sector.
Nwaochei described the conference as an opportunity to
move beyond identifying industry challenges and focus on practical solutions
that will improve competitiveness, attract investment and drive sustainable
growth.
He noted that the SPE Nigeria Council, with more than
17,000 members across the country and over 50 student chapters, remains one of
the association's largest and most active branches. He added that NAICE has,
over the past five decades, developed into one of Africa's leading platforms
for technical discussions, policy dialogue, technology showcases and investment
promotion.
Highlighting recent developments in the industry,
Nwaochei pointed to the successful conclusion of Nigeria's 2025 oil and gas
licensing round, saying it reflected renewed investor confidence in the
country's upstream sector. He also referenced ongoing government initiatives
aimed at expanding gas utilisation and improving liquidity in the power and gas
value chain.
According to him, strengthening regulatory efficiency,
encouraging local content participation, commercialising gas resources and
deploying emerging technologies will be critical to achieving sustainable
growth and improving the ease of doing business in the sector.
Throughout the conference, delegates are expected to
participate in technical presentations, executive panel discussions, workshops,
innovation sessions, technology exhibitions, career development programmes and
networking events designed to foster knowledge sharing and industry
collaboration.
Nwaochei encouraged students and young professionals
attending the event to take advantage of the learning and networking
opportunities while preparing for leadership roles within the energy industry.
He also announced that the 2027 edition of NAICE will
mark the conference's golden jubilee, celebrating 50 years of contributions to
the development of Nigeria's petroleum and energy sectors.
This year's conference attracted about 800 delegates
and more than 50 exhibitors, underscoring the industry's continued interest in
advancing Nigeria's energy landscape through collaboration and innovation.
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