A New Chapter for Professionalism in Oil and Gas
Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos, Chairperson of NiPeTE, Engr. Prisca Kanebi, revealed that the rebranding is more than a name change—it’s a bold initiative to reposition the Institute as a key stakeholder in shaping the future of petroleum and gas engineering in Nigeria.
“We are working towards a strategic, focused path that will positively impact Nigeria’s economic growth,” Kanebi said, highlighting the Institute's evolving mission.
She noted that the new name has been officially approved by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), following extensive consultations with stakeholders across academia, industry, and regulatory bodies. The change signals a broader scope that reflects the Institute’s growing influence and relevance in Nigeria’s energy landscape.
Strengthening Capacity and Legislative Backing
In her address, Kanebi announced key milestones that support the Institute’s repositioning. These include the approval of its certification programs by the National Technical Board, and the successful second reading of its bill at the National Assembly. A public hearing on the bill is expected to be announced soon, bringing the Institute one step closer to becoming a fully recognized statutory body.
“This transition will not only legitimize our operations but empower us to meaningfully contribute to policy and economic development,” Kanebi emphasized.
Call for Unity and Professional Involvement
The Chairperson extended an open invitation to petroleum engineers in Nigeria and abroad to register with the Institute via www.nipete.org.ng, reinforcing the importance of collective professional engagement.
Addressing recent controversies, Kanebi clarified that certain circulating disclaimers were the product of a small group acting in bad faith and had no bearing on the legitimacy of the Institute. She stated unequivocally that the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) is not associated with the misinformation campaign.
“The Nigerian Society of Engineers, while a respected body, is a non-statutory association and acted based on information that remains open to scrutiny,” she said.
Unified Leadership and Vision
Kanebi assured the public of the Institute’s internal unity, stating, “The Board of Trustees, Governing Council, Executive Committee, Zonal Coordinators, and our diaspora members stand united in support of our mission.”
She condemned ongoing efforts to disrupt the Institute’s progress as politically motivated and called on stakeholders to remain focused and supportive.
- Prisca Kanebi – Chairman
- Nelkon Uzu – Deputy Chairman
- Adebowale Orekoya – Vice Chairman I
- Anyanwu Ignatius – Vice Chairman II
- Victor Georgeson – Vice Chairman III
- Oscar Ogali – National Secretary
- Peter Aprioku – Financial Secretary
- Bokizibe Elijah – Treasurer
- Ann Amalate – Technical Secretary
- Omijie Uwaye – Internal Auditor
- Nathaniel Odianose – Publicity Secretary
- Usiabulu Godsday – Assistant Publicity Secretary
- Suliaman Ibrahim and Martin Ndudi – Ex Officio
- Vitus Ibeh – Immediate Past Chairman
Zonal Coordinators:
- Peter Akpoturi – South-South
- Stanley Onwukwe – South-East
- Gbenga Maku – South-West
- Francis Nweke – North-Central
- Usman Hassan – North-East
As the Nigerian Institute of Petroleum and Gas Engineers steps into this new phase, it aims to become a driving force for policy innovation, talent development, and industry transformation—charting a bold course for Nigeria’s energy future.