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On Friday, August 8, industry professionals, academics, and technocrats gathered at the Four Points by Sheraton, Ikot Ekpene, for the inauguration of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Uyo Section 255.
The ceremony, which drew the SPE International and Council leadership, featured a keynote address, cultural performances, cake cutting, and more.
In her welcome address, Nkese Essien, Chairman of SPE Uyo Section, emphasized that Akwa Ibom State has long been at the forefront of Nigeria’s petroleum sector. She noted that creating an SPE section in Uyo showcases not only the region’s capabilities but also its commitment to advancing professional development, promoting technical excellence, and fostering stronger community engagement.
The chairman stated that the section’s inauguration aligns with SPE’s mission to strengthen professional networks and promote collaboration across Africa.
He expressed gratitude to the SPEI President, African Regional Director, Board of Trustees Chair, Council Chair, members of the Society of Petroleum Engineers, colleagues, friends, and industry partners for their support.
According to him, this milestone represents more than institutional growth—it marks a strategic step forward for Nigeria’s energy sector, especially in a region central to the nation’s oil and gas production.
He described the Uyo Section as a vital bridge linking technical professionals in the Niger Delta to global industry standards and innovations. With its proximity to major oil operations and distinctive geological features, the section is well-placed to address both regional and continental energy challenges.
From deep-water operations and enhanced oil recovery to digitization and environmental sustainability, the Uyo Section will serve as a hub for shared expertise and tailored technical solutions. It will also connect international oil companies, indigenous operators, service providers, and academic institutions, fostering the collaboration needed to navigate the complexities of the industry
The chairman highlighted that one of the section’s core mandates is to promote professional development. Through Monthly Technical Meetings, Distinguished Lecture Series, workshops, and seminars, members will be kept abreast of industry advancements. The focus will cover both traditional areas—such as reservoir management, drilling, and production optimization—and emerging fields like digital transformation, AI applications, and energy transition strategies.
He stressed the value of soft skills, leadership, and entrepreneurship in shaping today’s petroleum engineers. By fostering mentorship and structured knowledge transfer between experienced professionals and young engineers, the section aims to cultivate a capable, confident, and future-ready workforce.
Scholarship programs, internship placements, and joint projects with institutions such as the University of Uyo and Akwa Ibom State University will also be prioritized to nurture the next generation of energy experts.
Delivering the keynote address, SPE Africa Region Director, Riverson Oppong, commended the Uyo Section for its commitment to elevating the organization’s profile and encouraged members to demonstrate excellence in their professional practice.
Special Guest of Honour and 2025 SPE President, Olivier Houzé, assured members of career opportunities within SPE, noting that the ongoing energy transition is progressing faster than previous shifts and urging professionals to prepare for the changes ahead.
Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources, Hon. Nsikak Ekong, the ministry’s Head of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Engr. Anietie Emah, acknowledged the importance of private-sector engagement. He expressed the ministry’s readiness to collaborate with industry stakeholders, noting that the inauguration of SPE Uyo aligns with the state government’s vision.
The event’s highlight was the swearing-in of the 2025/2026 Pioneer Board Members of the Uyo Section by the 2025 SPE Nigeria Council Chairperson, Amina Danmadami.
The new board comprises:
Nkese Essien – Section Chairman
Julia Obuotor – Program Chairperson
Isemin Isemin – Secretary
Tinuola Udoh – Treasurer
Julius Akpabio – Membership Chairman
Frank Okon – Assistant Secretary
Emmanuel Sam – Communication and Outreach Chairman
Ubong Usoro – Assistant Membership Chairman
Israel Umanah – Student Affairs Chairman
Victor Emmah – Young Professionals Lead
