As the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) celebrates its 30th anniversary, its leaders have shed light on the challenges and advancements in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. This milestone underscores PETAN’s critical contributions to the industry and its vision for a more self-reliant future in energy.
Local Content Development: PETAN’s Milestone Achievements
Established in 1994, PETAN emerged as a coalition of indigenous companies determined to provide exploration and production services that had previously been dominated by multinational firms. The association’s efforts have significantly boosted Nigeria’s economy by keeping critical revenue within the country.
“Through PETAN, Nigeria has saved billions of dollars that would have gone to foreign firms,” said Engineer Wole Ogunsoya, PETAN Chairman. “Today, PETAN companies generate about $2 billion annually and employ over 10,000 Nigerians.”
The Local Content Act (NOGIC) of 2010 played a pivotal role in PETAN’s expansion, allowing Nigerian companies to take a more prominent role in upstream, midstream, and downstream operations.
Refining Capacity: Strides and Challenges
Nigeria’s refining capacity remains a critical focus area. While the country has four state-owned refineries in Kaduna, Warri, and Port Harcourt, years of underperformance have necessitated reliance on imported refined products. However, new developments provide hope.
The Dangote Refinery, a private facility with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, is expected to dramatically reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported fuels. Modular refineries across the Niger Delta, driven by indigenous companies, also add to the growing domestic refining landscape.
“The key challenge remains supplying enough crude oil to these refineries,” Ogunsoya noted. “Efforts are underway to ramp up production by an additional one million barrels per day.”
Technological Advancements: Preparing for the Future
With the theme “Navigating the Next”, PETAN’s anniversary emphasises leveraging cutting-edge technologies to address industry challenges. Although specific innovations will be unveiled at the December 13 event, PETAN’s leaders highlighted ongoing capacity-building initiatives.
Dr. Innocent Akubwe, PETAN’s Public Secretary, stressed the importance of developing homegrown expertise. “We’ve partnered with Shell, Chevron, and other firms to train young engineers, ensuring they gain hands-on experience. These efforts will make our industry more efficient and self-sufficient.”
Transparency and Cost Optimisation
Transparency and cost control are essential for the industry’s sustainability. PETAN actively collaborates with regulatory bodies, including the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), to eliminate inefficiencies caused by unqualified contractors.
“We are implementing a Seal of Quality with Bureau Veritas to certify companies’ capabilities,” Ogunsoya explained. “This ensures only competent firms handle vital oil and gas operations, reducing unnecessary costs.”
Prospects for Youth and Local Content Expansion
PETAN’s commitment to local content extends to youth empowerment. Its internship programmes, in collaboration with major oil firms, prepare hundreds of young professionals for careers in the industry.
“Our goal is to train and retain the next generation of oil and gas experts,” Akubwe said. “These efforts not only create jobs but also position Nigeria as a global player in oil and gas services.”
A Vision for 2025 and Beyond
Looking ahead, PETAN envisions a fully integrated oil and gas value chain in Nigeria, from exploration to refining and gas processing. The association believes that maintaining this value chain within the country could propel Nigeria into the top 20 global economies.
“By keeping every stage of the value chain in-country, we can create jobs, reduce import reliance, and drive GDP growth,” Ogunsoya asserted.
As PETAN marks its 30th year, its leaders reaffirm their commitment to advancing Nigeria’s oil and gas industry through innovation, transparency, and local expertise. The association’s achievements and future plans highlight the potential for a more self-reliant and prosperous energy sector.
