SAIPEC 2025: PETAN Chairman Highlights Future of Oil and Gas in Sub-Saharan Africa
The just-concluded Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC) brought together key industry players, policymakers, and investors to discuss the future of Africa’s energy sector.
In his welcome address, Chairman of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), Engr. Wole Ogunsanya, emphasized the importance of collaboration in shaping the continent’s oil and gas industry. He noted that PETAN, as a think-tank organization, carefully selected the conference theme and sub-themes to align with Africa’s energy outlook, stressing the need for strategic partnerships with governments and key stakeholders.
“Deepening collaborations will help navigate the next phases of the oil and gas sector, which holds the key to economic growth and development across Africa,” Ogunsanya stated.
Key Discussions and Industry Milestones
The conference facilitated thought-provoking discussions on critical industry issues, particularly financing challenges facing Africa’s energy sector. The African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) and other key stakeholders provided insights into investment hurdles, with a strong emphasis on the role of international investors, development banks, and private equity firms.
A significant highlight was the launch of the Africa Energy Bank by the African Export-Import Bank and APPO. With its headquarters in Nigeria, the institution is set to revolutionize energy financing, providing much-needed funding for oil, gas, and renewable energy projects across the continent.
Engr. Ogunsanya also acknowledged several industry milestones, including:
- Shell’s $5.5 billion Bonga North deepwater project
- The construction license awarded to Nigeria’s UTM FLNG
- The issuance of ten gas distribution licenses by the NMDPRA
- Senegal’s first gas production from the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project
- The Republic of Congo’s first LNG exports to Italy from the Congo LNG project
Renewable Energy and Strategic Partnerships
Recognizing the continent’s vast energy potential, Ogunsanya applauded South Africa, Egypt, and Morocco for leading the way in wind and solar energy development. He stressed that Africa has the human and natural resources to harness a diversified energy mix.
He also highlighted the significance of new Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs) signed by Panoro Energy in Equatorial Guinea and BW Energy in Gabon, emphasizing how international collaborations are accelerating energy exploration and production.
A Call for Continued Engagement
Ogunsanya reaffirmed PETAN’s commitment to driving Africa’s energy growth through continuous engagement and investment.
“This conference, which we have proudly hosted for the past nine years, serves as a platform for forging strategic partnerships that will address longstanding challenges in Africa’s energy landscape,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to sponsors, exhibitors, and speakers for their contributions, reaffirming PETAN’s dedication to promoting sustainable energy solutions for Africa.
With the success of SAIPEC 2024, industry stakeholders remain optimistic about the future of Africa’s oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors, as collaboration continues to drive progress.
