Nigeria’s energy industry made a strong impression at the 2025 Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, with the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) leading the charge in showcasing the country’s growing role in global energy.
With over 100 countries represented, OTC 2025 attracted energy experts, investors, and government officials from around the world. PETAN organized the Nigerian Pavilion, bringing together nearly 40 exhibitors and over 70 participants to highlight the strength of Nigerian companies in oil, gas, and energy technology.
PETAN Chairman Wole Ogunsanya said the conference has attracted over $8 billion in investments to Nigeria since the country started participating. He stressed the need to raise Nigeria’s oil production from 1.8 million to at least 2.5 million barrels per day to meet domestic refining demands and boost exports. He also revealed PETAN has secured funding to help its members acquire vital infrastructure like rigs, equipment, and pipelines.
Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, called on African nations to work together to end energy poverty, announcing the creation of a $19 billion African Energy Bank in partnership with Afreximbank and other backers. He described the energy transition push by developed countries as “hypocritical” and harmful to Africa’s growth.
Ghana’s Energy Minister, Mr. John Abdullahi, praised Nigeria’s leadership and said Ghana was learning from Nigeria’s experience in oil development and climate policy.
Nigeria’s Minister of State for Gas, Ekperikpe Ekpo, emphasized the country’s goal of becoming a gas-powered economy, pointing to its 210 trillion cubic feet of proven gas reserves. He said the government’s “Decade of Gas” drive is central to achieving energy security and economic growth.
PETAN also hosted three technical sessions at the conference, showcasing innovations including virtual reality training, offshore infrastructure, and energy services. PETAN’s Publicity Secretary, Dr. Innocent Akuvue, said this year’s event was one of the most successful for Nigeria and expects more companies to participate next year.
The conference also featured global energy leaders, including keynote speaker Chris Lemons, a deep-sea diver whose survival story was featured on Netflix, and Alex Martinez, Chair of the OTC Board, who said OTC continues to lead global offshore energy dialogue.
Nigeria’s presence at OTC 2025 confirmed its ambition to lead in African energy, combining local innovation with global partnerships to fuel future growth.
