By Adewale Sanyaolu
The Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), Nigeria Council, has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to advancing the oil and gas sector, highlighting its pivotal role in ensuring global energy demands are met in a manner that is safe, secure, and sustainable.
The dedication was emphasised by the Chairman of SPE Nigeria, Mr. Tahir Salahuddeen, during a post-conference media briefing where he outlined the significant outcomes of their recently concluded conference in Lagos.
“Our mission is to connect a global community of engineers, scientists, and energy professionals,” Salahuddeen stated.
He added: “By facilitating the exchange of knowledge, fostering innovation, and enhancing technical and professional competence, we aim to drive forward the exploration, development, and production of oil, gas, and other related energy resources.”
The conference, themed “Petroleum Industry Value Chain Optimisation: The Inevitability of Midstream and Downstream Development,” was carefully curated to underscore the indispensable role that the petroleum sector plays in Nigeria’s economy. Mr. Salahuddeen noted that the gathering successfully identified critical gaps within the industry and proposed actionable solutions aimed at bolstering energy security in Nigeria, particularly within the midstream and downstream sectors. He stressed the importance of a diversified energy mix, asserting that, “A robust combination of coal, oil, gas, nuclear, and solar provides the necessary energy security. When one source falters, others can sustain the demand. However, reliance on a single source, especially if it becomes scarce, poses significant risks.”
Looking towards the future, the incoming SPE Nigeria Council Chairman, Mrs. Amina Danmadami, expressed optimism about the potential contributions of young Nigerians to the energy sector. She foresees a bright future where local talent drives technological advancements and innovations, playing a crucial role in the industry’s growth and sustainability.
This year’s conference was a landmark event, drawing together over 4,000 industry professionals, thought leaders, and stakeholders. It featured the presentation of more than 250 technical papers, each addressing key topics that are critical to the future of the energy sector. The conference also benefited from the insights of Terry Palisch, the 2024 SPE International President, whose special presentation enriched the discussions.
The event was further elevated by the participation of key government figures, including the Ministers of State for Petroleum (Oil & Gas), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri and Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, who offered valuable perspectives on policy and innovation. Additionally, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd., Mr. Mele Kyari, highlighted the company’s efforts to consolidate the midstream and downstream sectors, ensuring a sustainable upstream business.
and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) showcased their achievements and ongoing initiatives designed to attract investments across the entire value chain.
A focal point of the conference was a workshop on the future of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry in the wake of International Oil Companies (IOC) divestments. This session offered deep insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the sector. The Young Professionals’ Workshop, another key feature, focused on market trends and opportunities within the downstream and midstream sectors, empowering the next generation of leaders. Additionally, panel sessions explored topics such as maximizing upstream value, fostering industry partnerships, and enhancing energy security through technology and market dynamics. The Women Leadership Programme, dedicated to promoting gender inclusivity in leadership roles, provided strategic insights into the evolving landscape of the energy sector.
In a forward-looking move, the SPE Nigeria Council unveiled the theme for NAICE 2025: *”Building a Sustainable Energy Future: Leveraging Technology, Supply Chain, Human Resources, and Policy.”* The 48th edition of NAICE is scheduled to take place from August 4th to 6th, 2025, with pre-conference training courses set for August 2nd and 3rd, 2025. This theme reflects SPE’s ongoing commitment to addressing the complex challenges of sustainability within the energy sector.
As the leading professional association for petroleum industry practitioners globally, the Society of Petroleum Engineers boasts a membership of over 127,000 individuals across 145 countries. In Nigeria, SPE’s vibrant community includes over 15,000 members, spread across five sections—Lagos, Port Harcourt, Warri, Benin, and Abuja—and 47 active student chapters. Through these networks, SPE continues to play a critical role in shaping the future of the oil and gas industry both in Nigeria and on the global stage.