…As it inaugurates new executive committee
By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
The Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) on Friday reaffirmed that it would sustain its aggressive advocacy for genuine local content development as the association positions itself not only as Nigeria’s leading voice for indigenous participation but as a growing continental force in Africa’s energy sector.
The pledge was made at the swearing-in ceremony of the new Executive Committee at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, marking the formal leadership transition for the influential body representing indigenous oil and gas service companies.
Dr. Trevor Ajayi, a member of the PETAN Board of Trustees, administered the oath of office in the presence of Mr. Shawley Coker, who represented the Board Chairman.
The new executives are: Wole Ogunsanya (Chairman), Obi Uzu (Vice Chairman), Eloka Ejeh (Secretary), Bolaji Ososami (Financial Secretary), Okezie Akiwiwu (Treasurer), Okey Ukaegbu (Conference Chairman),
Joan Faluyi (Publicity Secretary) and Ibilola Amao (Ex-Officio).
In his remarks after being sworn-in, Engr. Wole Ogunsanya, who has led the association with notable visibility over the past two years, highlighted key achievements, particularly the association’s strong international and regional footprint.
“Our participation at OTC has always been a statement of intent. Despite global uncertainty, PETAN continues to show up in full strength because we believe Nigeria’s indigenous oil and gas companies must remain visible on the world stage. This year’s OTC in May will be no different,” Ogunsanya said, receiving enthusiastic applause from members.
He added that the Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC) has evolved significantly under PETAN’s influence: “SAIPEC has grown beyond a Nigerian event. This year, we welcomed delegates from across Africa, and that is a testament to the relevance of what PETAN is building. We are not just advocating for local content in Nigeria — we are leading the conversation across the continent.”
Mr. Shawley Coker, speaking on behalf of the Board of Trustees, charged the new leadership to uphold selfless service and intensify the fight against “briefcase companies” in the sector.
“You must serve selflessly and remain committed to advancing Nigeria’s local content agenda,” Coker said. “Be symbols of advocacy, promote genuine indigenous capacity, rid the industry of briefcase companies, and be a voice for the voiceless. Think beyond individual interests and champion the collective growth of the industry.”
Coker further urged greater compliance with and expansion of opportunities under the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act, calling on Nigerian companies to “continue opening doors and pulling their weight” in the sector.
The Board of Trustees also commended Ogunsanya’s leadership over the past two years, expressing confidence that the association will sustain and build on the momentum achieved in capacity development, international visibility, and advocacy for indigenous operators.
As the umbrella body for indigenous technical oilfield service providers, PETAN is expected to use the new executive team to deepen its role in pushing for technology transfer, local manufacturing, and meaningful participation by Nigerian firms in both upstream and related energy activities.
The inauguration comes at a time when Nigeria’s oil and gas industry continues to grapple with balancing international investment, energy transition pressures, and the imperative for stronger local content implementation. PETAN’s leadership has consistently framed indigenous capacity building as central to long-term sector resilience and national economic development.
With the new team now in place, the association is poised to maintain its high-profile presence at major events such as the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) and to further elevate SAIPEC as a premier pan-African platform.
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