The 2024 edition of the NAEC Annual Strategic International Conference is set to deliver far-reaching impacts and extended benefits for Nigeria’s energy sector, with a focus on actionable solutions and transformative outcomes. Organized by the Association of Energy Correspondents of Nigeria (NAEC), the conference will take place on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, with the theme: “Gas As Energy Transition Fuel: Navigating Nigeria’s Trilemma of Finance, Energy Security, and International Politics.”
This premier event, designed to be a game-changer for the Nigerian energy industry, shall serve as a critical platform for operators, policymakers, investors, and service providers to address and resolve pressing issues in the oil, gas, power, and renewable energy sectors. The conference will not only celebrate key achievements but also emphasize identifying tangible solutions to overcome industry challenges and pave the way for future growth.
The Conference has been strategically developed to harbour inherent values including:
* Enhancing Energy Security and Transition
The 2024 NAEC Conference will bring to the forefront the importance of leveraging Nigeria’s vast natural gas resources as a cleaner and more sustainable energy source. A major highlight will be the session on “Actualizing the Decade of Gas: Powering Nigeria’s Energy Sufficiency, Industrialization, and Economic Prosperity.” This session will showcase the pivotal role natural gas can play in driving Nigeria’s energy independence, powering industries, and fostering economic growth.
* Catalyzing Investment Opportunities
The conference will also act as a catalyst for attracting and unlocking investments in Nigeria’s energy landscape. Through robust discussions and industry presentations, stakeholders will gain strategic insights into investment opportunities across the gas, oil, and power sectors. The third panel session, “Power Sector: Unlocking Investments for Sustainable Growth,” will directly address the urgent need to boost investor confidence and foster long-term, sustainable energy projects.
* Providing Strategic Solutions for Energy Challenges
A key benefit of the conference is the provision of innovative and practical solutions to the complex challenges facing Nigeria’s energy sector. The carefully curated theme will guide discussions on balancing finance, energy security, and international politics, with the ultimate goal of ensuring Nigeria’s energy transition aligns with global trends while meeting domestic needs.
* Foster Collaboration Between Key Stakeholders
Bringing together government officials, industry leaders, and regulators, the conference will serve as a hub for collaboration. The participation of high-profile figures such as the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo; Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; and the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, highlights the importance of public-private dialogue in achieving energy goals.
* Strengthening Regulatory Frameworks and Local Content
With presentations from regulatory bodies such as the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), the conference will address how Nigeria’s regulatory landscape can better support local content development and drive innovation within the energy sector.
* Driving Sustainable Development in the Energy Sector
The conference will underscore the role of natural gas in ensuring a just energy transition while driving sustainability. By focusing on gas as a bridge fuel, the event aims to position Nigeria at the forefront of Africa’s energy transition, contributing to the global goal of reducing carbon emissions while addressing local energy needs.
* Actionable Insights and Future Roadmap
Industry leaders, including the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kolo Kyari, and the Managing Director of Nigeria LNG Limited, Dr Philip Mshelbila, will share forward-looking strategies to propel the sector forward. These insights will equip attendees with a clear roadmap to navigate the complexities of Nigeria’s energy trilemma.
As highlighted by NAEC National Chairman, Mr. Ugo Amadi, this year’s conference promises to deliver concrete outcomes that will directly contribute to Nigeria’s energy security and sustainable future. By fostering in-depth discussions, strategic collaboration, and innovative solutions, the 2024 NAEC Conference is poised to shape the future of the Nigerian energy sector for years to come.
