PETAN intensifies drive for Indigenous capacity, eyes continental leadership
**** As New Executives Take Office
The Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to deepening indigenous capacity in the oil and gas industry, declaring a renewed push to position itself not only as Nigeria’s foremost advocate for local content but as a formidable continental leader in Africa’s evolving energy landscape.
This bold declaration came on Friday during the inauguration of the association’s newly elected Executive Committee at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos—an event that signalled both continuity and renewed ambition for the influential body representing indigenous oilfield service companies.
In a solemn yet symbolic ceremony, a member of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Trevor Ajayi, administered the oath of office to the new leadership team in the presence of Mr. Shawley Coker, who stood in for the Board Chairman.
The newly inaugurated executives include Wole Ogunsanya as Chairman, Obi Uzu as Vice Chairman, Eloka Ejeh as Secretary, Bolaji Ososami as Financial Secretary, Okezie Akiwiwu as Treasurer, Okey Ukaegbu as Conference Chairman, Joan Faluyi as Publicity Secretary, and Ibilola Amao as Ex-Officio.
Delivering his address moments after taking the oath, Chairman Engr. Wole Ogunsanya struck a tone of confidence and determination, reflecting on the association’s growing influence both locally and internationally.
He underscored PETAN’s sustained global visibility, particularly at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), describing it as a strategic platform for showcasing Nigeria’s indigenous strength.
“Our participation at OTC has always been a statement of intent,” Ogunsanya declared to resounding applause.
“Despite global uncertainties, PETAN continues to show up in full strength because we believe Nigeria’s indigenous companies must remain visible and competitive on the world stage. This year will be no exception.”
He further highlighted the remarkable evolution of the Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC), noting that the event has transcended national boundaries to become a unifying platform for Africa’s energy stakeholders.
“SAIPEC is no longer just a Nigerian event—it is now a continental movement,” he said.
“The increasing participation from across Africa reflects the growing relevance of PETAN’s vision. We are not merely advocating for local content in Nigeria; we are shaping the narrative across the continent.”
In his goodwill message, Mr. Shawley Coker charged the new leadership to embrace selfless service and intensify efforts to sanitize the industry, particularly by eliminating the influence of so-called “briefcase companies.”
“You must rise above personal interests and serve as true custodians of the industry’s future,” Coker urged.
“Promote genuine indigenous capacity, uphold integrity, and be a strong voice for those who cannot speak.
The responsibility before you is not just leadership—it is stewardship.”
He also called for stricter adherence to the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act, encouraging indigenous companies to expand opportunities and deepen their contributions to national growth.
The Board of Trustees, in a show of confidence, commended Ogunsanya’s leadership over the past two years, crediting his administration with enhancing PETAN’s visibility, strengthening advocacy, and advancing capacity development across the sector.
As Nigeria’s oil and gas industry navigates the complex realities of global energy transition, fluctuating investments, and domestic expectations, PETAN’s renewed focus on indigenous empowerment is being positioned as a critical pillar for long-term resilience and economic sustainability.
With a reinvigorated leadership team at the helm, the association is set to consolidate its influence on major global platforms such as OTC, while further elevating SAIPEC into a premier pan-African energy forum.
For PETAN, the message is clear: the future of Africa’s energy industry must be driven by Africans, powered by local expertise, and sustained through collective vision.
