By Chidi Ugwu
The Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES 2025) is set to host the much anticipated Africa Upstream Forum, a pivotal session under the subtheme “From Resources to Revenue.”
This forum will convene key stakeholders, industry leaders, and global investors to explore Africa’s vast upstream petroleum potential and strategies for maximizing resource monetization.
“Africa’s upstream sector is poised for significant growth, presenting a wealth of untapped opportunities for both local and international investors”, said James Shindi, CEO, Brevity Anderson, event organizers and conference producers.
This session will highlight transformative exploration strides, cutting-edge technologies, and innovative business strategies aimed at fostering sustainable energy development and revenue generation across the continent.
The special address will be delivered by Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, Commission Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) who will present insights on “The Role of Regulatory Support in Advancing Nigeria’s Upstream Success”.
Additionally, the Keynote Address will be presented by Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), on “Maximizing Africa’s Hydrocarbon Resources for Sustainable Revenue Growth.”
A high-level panel discussion, focusing on “Turning Resources into Revenue,” will bring together industry giants to deliberate on strategic pathways for optimizing Africa’s hydrocarbon assets with Mr. Mansur Mohammed, Head of West Africa Upstream Content, Sub-Saharan Africa Oil & Gas, Wood Mackenzie as the session host.
The distinguished panelists include Mr. Mele Kolo Kyari, GCEO, NNPC Ltd; Mr. Osayande Igiehon, Managing Director, Heirs Energy; Mr. Matthieu Bouyer, MD/CEO, TotalEnergies Companies in Nigeria; Dr. Ugo Okafor, MD/CEO, SunTrust Atlantic Energies; Mr. Adegbite Falade, MD/CEO, Aradel Holdings Plc; Mr. Lekan Akinyanmi, CEO, LEKOIL Limited; Mr. Jim Swartz, MD/CEO, Chevron Nigeria Limited and Mr. Shane Harris, Chairman/MD, ExxonMobil Nigeria.
The closing remarks will be delivered by Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), reinforcing the importance of a collaborative approach to harnessing Africa’s hydrocarbon wealth for economic transformation.
With Africa’s energy landscape undergoing rapid evolution, the Africa Upstream Forum at NIES 2025 presents a unique opportunity to drive investment, foster partnerships, and cement Africa’s position as a formidable player in the global energy market.
The Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) is a premier energy conference that brings together policymakers, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to shape the future of Africa’s energy sector. NIES serves as a strategic platform for fostering innovation, investment, and sustainable energy solutions across the continent. This year’s theme, “Bridging Continents: Connecting Investors Worldwide with Africa’s Energy Potential,” underscores the summit’s mission to showcase Africa’s vast energy resources and its pivotal role in the global energy transition.
