The Nigerian Institution of Petroleum Engineers (NIPetE) has emphasized the crucial need to domesticate codes and standards that will ensure world-class operations within Nigeria’s petroleum sector. This assertion was made by Engineer Prisca Kanebi, National Chairman of NIPetE, during a high-level meeting with Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, in Abuja.
Kanebi outlined NIPetE’s strategic objectives, highlighting the importance of fostering robust collaboration between industry stakeholders and academia in petroleum engineering. This partnership aims to promote activities and drive growth within the sector.
As a watchdog for educational and professional practices, NIPetE encourages major industry operators to sponsor cutting-edge training equipment and laboratories at universities. Furthermore, the institution facilitates sabbaticals for academic petroleum engineers with leading Nigerian exploration and production companies, enabling them to provide fresh insights into operational challenges.
In response, Minister Lokpobiri reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to a strong partnership with NIPetE, aimed at advancing the oil and gas industry. He underscored the importance of collaboration in key areas, including capacity building in universities and enhancing professional practices to boost oil production in Nigeria.
The Minister expressed concern over the current low production levels, emphasizing the need to leverage the expertise of NIPetE members to tackle challenges and increase oil output. This, he noted, is crucial for Nigeria’s economic growth.
Despite significant investments in industry capacity, Lokpobiri acknowledged a lack of tangible results, calling for a new approach to ensure Nigeria’s success. He pledged to attend NIPetE’s upcoming conference and proposed establishing a collaborative agenda, to be reviewed quarterly, to guide their partnership.
Kanebi extended a formal invitation to the Minister to attend NIPetE‘s 3rd annual conference, scheduled for October 31 and November 1 at the Abuja Continental Hotel. This conference promises to be a pivotal platform for stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions, share expertise, and explore opportunities in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
