PETAN Inaugurates New Executive Committee to Drive Indigenous Oil and Gas Growth
The Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) has formally inaugurated its newly elected Executive Committee in Lagos, signaling a significant leadership transition for the association. This event marks the beginning of a new chapter for PETAN, which serves as the umbrella body representing indigenous oil and gas service companies in Nigeria.
Oath of Office Administered by Board of Trustees
The oath of office was administered by Dr. Trevor Ajayi, a member of the PETAN Board of Trustees, in the presence of Shawley Coker, who represented the Chairman of the Board of Trustees. The ceremony underscored the importance of this leadership change and the expectations placed on the new executives.
Newly Sworn-In Executive Committee Members
The following individuals were sworn in to lead PETAN for the upcoming term:
- Wole Ogunsanya – Chairman
- Obi Uzu – Vice Chairman
- Eloka Ejeh – Secretary
- Wale Adelaja – Assistant Secretary
- Bolaji Ososami – Financial Secretary
- Okezie Akiwiwu – Treasurer
- Okey Ukaegbu – Conference Chairman
- Joan Faluyi – Publicity Secretary
- Ibilola Amao – Ex-Officio
Recognition of Outgoing Leadership and Future Directions
The Board of Trustees acknowledged the contributions of Engr. Wole Ogunsanya, who served as PETAN Chairman over the past two years. In his speech, Ogunsanya highlighted key achievements during his tenure, emphasizing PETAN's active participation in international events like the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) and the Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC).
He stated, "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 added that SAIPEC has evolved into a continental platform, attracting delegates from across Africa and showcasing PETAN's leadership in advocating for local content beyond Nigeria's borders.
Charges to the New Executives
Speaking at the ceremony, Shawley Coker urged the newly inaugurated executives to serve selflessly and remain committed to advancing Nigeria's local content agenda. He called on them to be symbols of advocacy, promote genuine indigenous capacity, and eliminate briefcase companies from the industry. Coker stressed the need for greater indigenous participation under the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act, encouraging Nigerian companies to take on more significant roles in the sector.
Coker emphasized, "The new leadership must be a voice for the voiceless, think beyond individual interests, and champion the collective growth of the industry." This charge highlights the broader responsibilities of the Executive Committee in fostering sustainable development and inclusivity within Nigeria's oil and gas landscape.
Consolidating Achievements and Future Outlook
With the new Executive Committee now in place, PETAN is poised to build on past successes and continue its advocacy for capacity development, local content, and indigenous participation. The association aims to strengthen its role as a key player in shaping policies and practices that benefit Nigeria's oil and gas sector, ensuring that indigenous companies remain competitive and influential both locally and internationally.
