Nigeria is promoting its indigenous oil and gas companies as credible global partners at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) 2026 in Houston, United States, in a move to attract investment and reshape industry perceptions.
The Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) said its delegation is focused on translating local technical capacity into bankable partnerships and long-term collaborations.
In a statement on Thursday, PETAN Publicity Secretary, Dr Joan Faluyi, said the association would spearhead Nigeria’s presence at the Nigerian Pavilion with a strong investment-driven message.
“Our participation goes beyond visibility; it is about demonstrating that Nigerian firms are ready for serious global partnerships,” she said.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the conference is themed: ‘Africa’s Energy Transformation: Scaling Investment, Technology, and Local Capacity for Sustainable Growth’.
Faluyi noted that the theme aligns with Africa’s need to expand investment, adopt advanced technology and strengthen local capacity for sustainable development.
She added that PETAN is championing a narrative that positions indigenous companies at the core of energy development.
“For us, local capacity is no longer complementary; it is the foundation of Nigeria’s energy future,” she said.
PETAN Executive Secretary, Mr Eloka Ejeh, said sustained investment in skills and technology by Nigerian firms is beginning to yield competitive results.
“The capabilities we present are built on deliberate development and proven performance. We are engaging partners who recognise value and are willing to collaborate on equal terms,” he said.
Ejeh added that the conference offers an opportunity to reshape how global investors perceive Nigerian firms, urging Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to move beyond transactional relationships and embrace strategic partnerships with local companies.
“As Africa expands energy access while pursuing sustainability, Nigerian firms offer both capacity and adaptability. Local expertise should be seen as an advantage, not a limitation,” he said.
Also speaking, PETAN Chairman, Mr Wole Ogunsanya, described OTC 2026 as a defining moment for Nigeria’s energy sector.
“OTC 2026 allows us to present Nigerian companies as leaders, not followers, in Africa’s energy transition. We are here to influence decisions, not merely participate,” he said.
Ogunsanya disclosed that Nigeria’s delegation would host a series of targeted engagements aimed at unlocking investment and strengthening partnerships.
These include the African Energy Forum, the NCDMB–OEM Investment Forum, and a strategic networking golf event.
“These engagements bring decision-makers together to convert interest into tangible investments,” he said.
He added that PETAN member companies span a broad range of services, reflecting decades of industry experience.
“Our strength lies in our diversity and depth, from engineering to logistics and reservoir management,” Ogunsanya said.
Never miss a moment! Get the stories shaping Nigeria, delivered straight to your phone. Follow Peoplesdaily Newspaper on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive reports, and the headlines everyone will be talking about, before anyone else.
