The Association of Energy Correspondents of Nigeria (NAEC) reaffirmed its pivotal role in shaping national energy discourse as it hosted the 2025 edition of its Annual Conference at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos. With the theme “Nigeria’s Energy Future: Exploring Opportunities and Addressing Risks for Sustainable Growth,” the event convened leading voices across government, industry, and civil society to chart a collective path towards a resilient and low-carbon energy future for Nigeria.
This year’s conference also marked the debut of the NAEC Industry Excellence Awards, an initiative designed to celebrate institutions demonstrating outstanding leadership, innovation, and sustainability within the energy and extractive sectors.
Among the organisations recognised were Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), Seplat Energy, Pinnacle Oil & Gas Limited, Falcon Corporation, Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), Oando Plc, and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB). These industry players were commended for advancing operational efficiency, environmental responsibility, and national energy security through transformative practices.
Standing out among the honourees was Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO), recipient of the Sustainability Company of the Year Award — a recognition of its pioneering efforts in environmental stewardship and sustainable energy transition.
SEEPCO’s integrated sustainability model demonstrates how indigenous firms can align profitability with purpose. The company’s fleet transformation programme has seen over 90 percent of its heavy and light-duty vehicles converted to compressed natural gas (CNG), a major step toward decarbonising its logistics chain. In marine operations, SEEPCO upgraded its barge fleet to double-hull structures, reducing risks to aquatic ecosystems and protecting Nigeria’s fragile waterways.
Equally noteworthy is the company’s progress in flare reduction and gas utilisation, converting significant volumes of waste gas into usable energy, and driving efficiency across its production network. Beyond operations, SEEPCO’s green infrastructure and afforestation programme continues to set new benchmarks — with a target of 10,000 trees annually and a survival rate of 60–80 percent, supported by greenhouses nurturing over 25,000 seedlings and an expanding 1,000 sqm eco-hub network.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Chris Offokansi, General Manager, Human Resources and Industrial Relations at SEEPCO, dedicated the award to the company’s employees and host communities.
“At SEEPCO, we believe true success is measured by the positive impact we create,” he said. “Our commitment goes beyond compliance — it is about shaping a better, safer future for people and the planet. Sustainability is not a buzzword for us; it is the lens through which we define growth.”
In a symbolic gesture that underscored its long-term commitment, SEEPCO also entered into a sustainability partnership with NAEC aimed at advancing sustainability awareness, responsible energy practices, and media capacity-building within the Nigerian energy ecosystem.
NAEC Chairman, Mr. Ugo Amadi, described the awards as “a new chapter in NAEC’s mission to promote excellence and accountability within the sector,” adding that the platform would continue to inspire innovation and responsible energy leadership across Nigeria.
The 2025 conference featured insightful discussions on the evolving energy transition landscape, climate adaptation, and the growing urgency for data-driven solutions and inter-sectoral collaboration.
SEEPCO’s recognition at the NAEC Awards reaffirms a growing consensus that sustainability is the new frontier of competitiveness in Nigeria’s energy industry. Through its initiatives, the company is not just producing energy — it is powering transformation, nurturing communities, and preserving the environment for future generations.
“Our journey is far from over,” Offokansi noted. “Together with our partners and stakeholders, we will continue to drive innovation and sustainability — ensuring a greener and more inclusive energy future for Nigeria and beyond.”
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