Nigeria’s drive towards a sustainable energy future has gained renewed momentum as the Federal Government and key regulatory agencies reaffirmed their dedication to addressing the country’s energy challenges. This commitment was the focal point at the 2025 Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE) held in Lagos, where top government officials, industry leaders, and local and international oil companies converged to discuss innovative strategies for combating energy poverty and navigating the global energy transition.
With the theme “Building a Sustainable Energy Future: Leveraging Technology, Supply Chain, Human Resources and Policy,” the event brought together stakeholders from across the oil and gas value chain. They collectively emphasized the need for collaboration in solving Africa’s energy crisis amid evolving global dynamics.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, and the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Farouk Ahmed, were present at the conference. Also represented were the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, and the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Gbenga Komolafe. The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Bayo Ojulari, participated virtually.
In his remarks, Lokpobiri noted that the global energy landscape is being reshaped by numerous factors—including geopolitical conflicts, supply chain disruptions, climate change concerns, currency volatility, and growing competition for natural resources. He stressed the importance of unified efforts among all stakeholders to overcome these challenges and ensure energy security for Nigeria and the continent at large.
He further emphasized that technology is a critical component in the effort to achieve energy sustainability. According to him, the adoption of cutting-edge tools and innovations must continue if Nigeria hopes to meet its energy needs while transitioning to cleaner sources.
“From advanced and sophisticated acquisition methods to non-invasive exploration techniques like airborne surveys, technology is driving more accurate, environmentally responsible, and cost-efficient operations,” Lokpobiri stated. He also highlighted the growing impact of artificial intelligence in transforming the oil and gas sector, noting its role in boosting productivity, reducing costs, and enhancing service delivery to meet national development goals.
The 2025 NAICE served as a platform for dialogue, partnerships, and actionable strategies, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing its energy potential in a sustainable and inclusive manner. The consensus among participants was clear: collaboration, innovation, and policy alignment are essential to building an energy future that supports both economic growth and environmental responsibility.
As Nigeria continues to navigate its energy journey, the collective pledge by policymakers, regulators, and industry operators at NAICE signals a shared vision for a future where energy access is expanded, sustainability is prioritized, and the country’s vast natural resources are managed effectively for generations to come.
