SPE unveils conference theme for 2025
The Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Nigeria Council has unveiled the 2025 conference theme for its flagship programme, Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE).
Themed, “Building a Sustainable Energy Future: Leveraging Technology, Supply Chain, Human Resources, and Policy”, the 48th edition of NAICE will be held from August 4th to 6th, 2025, with training courses scheduled for August 2nd to 3rd, 2025.
Speaking during a press conference on the sidelines of the NAICE 2024, Salahuddeen M. Tahir, Chairman, SPE Nigeria reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to advancing the oil and gas sector, underscoring its crucial role in meeting the global energy needs in a safe, secure, and sustainable manner.
“Our mission is to connect a global community of engineers, scientists, and energy professionals to exchange knowledge, innovate, and advance their technical and professional competence in the exploration, development, and production of oil and gas, as well as related energy resources. This is all in pursuit of a safe, secure, and sustainable energy future,” Tahir said in his welcome address at the just concluded NAICE held from 5th to 7th August 2024 in Lagos.
Tahir noted that the theme of the conference, “Petroleum Industry Value Chain Optimization: The Inevitability of Midstream and Downstream Development,” was carefully chosen to reflect the sector’s crucial role in Nigeria’s economy.
The gathering successfully identified gaps and proposed actionable solutions for enhancing energy security in Nigeria, with a particular focus on the midstream and downstream petroleum sectors.
Tahir stated that Nigeria needs a robust energy mix to survive.
“If you have a combination of coal, oil, gas, nuclear, and solar, it provides energy security. If one source is unavailable, you have others to rely on. However, if you depend on just one source, and it is not abundant, it could be problematic,” he said.
The incoming SPE Nigeria Council Chairman, Mrs. Amina Danmadami, expressed optimism about the role of young Nigerians in driving technological advancements and innovation within the energy sector, foreseeing a bright future where local talent and skills contribute significantly to industry growth.
This year’s conference brought together a record number of over 4,000 industry professionals, thought leaders and stakeholders. The conference featured the presentation of over 250 technical papers, covering a broad range of topics crucial to the future of the energy sector.
Terry Palisch, 2024 SPE International President, delivered a special presentation that significantly enriched the discussions. Ministers of State for Petroleum (Oil & Gas), Sen Heineken Lokpobiri and Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo also provided valuable perspectives on policy and innovation. The GCEO of NNPC Ltd Mele Kyari reeled out the company’s efforts in consolidating the midstream and downstream sectors of the industry towards ensuring a sustainable Upstream business. NUPRC and NMDPRA highlighted achievements and ongoing initiatives to attract investments across the value chain. The event featured a Topical Issues Workshop on the future of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry post-IOC divestments, offering insights into challenges and opportunities.
The Young Professionals’ Workshop addressed market trends and opportunities in the downstream and midstream sectors, empowering future leaders. Key sessions included panels on maximising upstream value, fostering industry partnerships, exploring energy security through technology and market dynamics, while the Women Leadership Programme focused on gender inclusivity in leadership, providing strategic insights into the sector’s evolving landscape.
The Society of Petroleum Engineers is the leading professional association for petroleum industry practitioners globally, boasting over 127,000 members across 145 countries. In Nigeria, SPE has a robust membership base of over 15,000, including student members, spread across five sections—Lagos, Port Harcourt, Warri, Benin, and Abuja—and 47 vibrant student chapters.
