By Obiabin Onukwugha
Experts in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry have stated that affordable energy supply is essential for national development and economic stability.
The experts also called for stronger attention to gas development and energy security, amidst the rising energy demand, saying it could pose challenges for Nigeria’s economic growth if not properly managed.
The experts spoke at an oil and gas development training organised by Lapis Nigeria Limited in Lagos.
Chairman of the Board of Directors of Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, Dr. Layi Fatona, highlighted the growing importance of gas in the global energy transition, describing it as a key resource that can support cleaner energy generation compared to traditional fuels.
Fatona stated that modern societies have become increasingly dependent on energy for everyday activities, powering industries and hospitals and as well supporting communication and digital technologies.
He noted that Nigeria is better described as a gas-rich country, with reserves that exceed its crude oil resources and urged professionals across technical and commercial segments of the industry to sharpen their skills and remain proactive in identifying opportunities and addressing emerging challenges in the sector.
Chairman of Lapis Nigeria Limited, Dr. Femi Bajomo, said strengthening the oil and gas sector requires sustained investment in skills development for both technical and non-technical professionals.
He explained that the programme was designed to equip professionals across different sectors with a better understanding of oil and gas development and the industry value chain.
Bajomo noted that building local expertise has become increasingly important as indigenous operators take on larger roles in the country’s oil and gas industry
He added that the training programme, now in its second cohort, focuses on non-technical professionals and provides participants with a comprehensive overview of oil and gas development and the industry value chain.