By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.
The 4th Biennial International Conference on Hydrocarbon Science and Technology (ICHST) opened in Abuja on Wednesday with a compelling call for Africa to lead its own energy transformation.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Samuel E. Onoji, Principal and Chief Executive of the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), declared that the theme — “Transforming Africa’s Hydrocarbon Sector: Balancing Growth, Environment and Governance” — could not be more timely.
“This subject resonates deeply with the contemporary challenges and opportunities facing our continent,” Dr. Onoji told the audience gathered at the PTDF Towers. “The balance between growth, environmental stewardship, and governance has never been more critical.”
Dr. Onoji highlighted the complex reality Africa faces amid the global energy transition. While the continent is rich in oil and gas reserves, it is still plagued by energy poverty, limited infrastructure, and underinvestment.
“ Our resources remain vital to Africa’s economic development and energy security,” he stated. “But we must confront the twin pressures of climate change and sustainable development head-on.”
Dr. Onoji praised the newly proposed Africa Energy Bank, a collaboration between the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) and the Africa Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), headquartered in Abuja. The bank aims to offer low-interest financing for oil, gas, and renewable energy projects across the continent.
“We recommend the early commissioning of the Africa Energy Bank,” he urged, “to support energy access, reduce poverty, and stimulate sustainable growth across Africa.”
Founded in 1972 as part of Nigeria’s OPEC commitment, the Petroleum Training Institute has trained more than 55,000 professionals, including technicians, technologists, engineers, and offshore rescue medics. PTI also maintains bilateral training agreements with countries like Ghana, Angola, Uganda.
Dr. Onoji announced that PTI is on track to achieve ISO 21001:2018 certification in Q1 2026, further reinforcing its position as a center of excellence in oil and gas training.
“We are proud to serve as the host of this critical conference,” he said. “PTI continues to be at the forefront of capacity building and knowledge sharing for Africa’s petroleum sector.”
Dr. Onoji credited the conference’s success to a broad network of institutional partners, including the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, NUPRC, NCDMB, NNPC Ltd, NNPC Academy, RTI, and Cyber Christian Ltd.
He also expressed gratitude to Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his administration’s strategic support of PTI and the conference initiative.
The opening day featured remarks and presentations from key industry figures:
Dr. Emeka Vitalis Obi, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources
Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, Executive Secretary, NCDMB, on “Lessons from the Ground: African Case Studies in Sustainable Hydrocarbon Development”
Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, GCEO, NNPC Ltd., on “Africa’s Energy Future: Innovation for Sustainable Growth”
The ICHST 2025 also honored individuals for their outstanding contributions to Africa’s energy sector. Among the awardees was His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, recognized for his leadership and commitment to petroleum industry development and education.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Onoji underscored the importance of innovation, policy coherence, and institutional collaboration. He encouraged all stakeholders — from governments to academia — to use the conference as a springboard for real action.
“This is more than just a conference. It is a platform to define our energy future — one that is African-led, inclusive, sustainable, and transformative.”