OTC 2024: Member urges FG to strengthen local content policies

Mrs Jumoke Oyedun, Managing Director, ACME Multi Tech Services Ltd., has called on the Federal Government to further strengthen local content policies in the oil and gas sector.

Oyedun, a Nigerian accredited member of the organising committee of the 2024 Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), told newsmen at the just-concluded five-day conference in Houston, Texas, U.S.

She said this would help to enhance development and capacity building in the sector.

Oyedun urged the government to invest in education, training and provide financial support which include grants, low-interest loans, and venture capital funding for indigenous companies.

According to her, the government needs to establish innovation hubs to focus on oil and gas technology as well as promote partnerships between foreign investors and local businesses.

“It also needs to enhance infrastructure development for efficient operations; implement transparent policies for trust and participation.

“Also, the government needs to monitor and evaluate initiatives to ensure effectiveness and adjust as needed. All these actions will create a conducive environment for sustainable growth in the industry,” she added.

Oyedun said that Nigerian involvement at OTC 2024 signified significant progress in fostering global business relationships and technological exchanges in the offshore technology sector.

She said: “We assess Nigerian participation quantitatively and qualitatively. Registration data iindicated increased interest, while engagement levels during sessions highlight active involvement.

“Networking events fostered valuable connections, leading to potential business opportunities. Follow-ups reveal concrete outcomes like partnerships.

“Feedback from Nigerians and other African countries participants will guide future planning. Media analysis gauges industry perception and global visibility,” she said.

Oyedun said that 20 prominent oil and gas firms showcased their services and expertise at the just-concluded OTC 2024 in Houston, Texas, managed by New House International Ltd.

According to her, among them were Seplat Energy Plc, Tasaniola Nigeria Ltd., JOENY Holdings Ltd., Goddie Chemicals International Ltd., Aradel Holdings Plc, and Ghana National Petroleum Corporation.

Others include New Energy Services Company Ltd., and Ardova Plc.

“Significantly, we highlighted two female-owned businesses, Offshore Dimension Ltd.  and Numad Energy Ltd. emphasising our commitment to gender inclusivity.

“All these companies exemplify the varied capabilities of Africa’s oil and gas sector, underscoring its vibrancy.

“New House International Ltd. plays a pivotal role in championing growth and diversity within the industry,” she said.

Assessing the 2024 OTC, Oyedun acknowledged that the conference stood out for its distinguished panel sessions and notable African leadership presence.

She said that leading figures, including ministers from Nigeria and Ghana, along with managing directors of International Oil Companies (IOCs) and National Oil Companies (NOCs), who participated in discussions on industry challenges and opportunities.

“Panels covered a wide array of topics, reflecting current trends and addressing African industry concerns.

“The diverse participation provided comprehensive insights into global and local energy dynamics.

“Service delivery was exceptional, ensuring all attendees received a seamless experience. This commitment to excellence contributed significantly to the conference’s success.

“Overall, the 2024 OTC set a new standard for global oil and gas conferences, serving as a vital platform for African industry advancement and international partnerships.

Expectations 2025 OTC,  Oyedun said: "As we look forward to the 2025 Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), our expectations are ambitious, building upon this year's successful participation.

" We intend to broaden the platform, offering increased representation for African-owned businesses, with a particular focus on Nigerians.

" This involves securing a prominent location to highlight their innovations in the global oil and gas industry. Our goal is to showcase the collective advancements of African businesses, particularly Nigerian firms, on a global stage," she added. 

For the 2025 Offshore Technology Conference, ensuring continued success and positive reviews can be achieved by focusing on:

1. Enhanced Networking: Implement more sophisticated networking tools and structured opportunities to foster meaningful connections.

2. Interactive Content; Introduce dynamic and engaging session formats that involve participants more actively.

3. Responsive Feedback Systems: Quickly adapt to feedback during the event to address any issues and improve the attendee experience in real-time.

4. Sustainability Practices: Emphasize and improve sustainable practices at the event to appeal to environmentally conscious stakeholders.

She added that by getting prepared on these key areas, the conference can not only maintain its high standards but also enhance its reputation and attendee satisfaction.

She said that the 2024 Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) encountered a significant hurdle due to the absence of printed booklets, typically essential for attendees in planning their visits and identifying key exhibitors. 

Adding that this absence potentially impeded participants from efficiently connecting with relevant businesses. 

Our Energy Correspondent, National, reports that she said that smaller companies and new entrants, relying on traditional methods for visibility, were particularly affected by this shortfall. While digital alternatives exist, not all attendees may have immediate access or prefer them over physical copies.

On challenges,  Oyedun said: "Addressing this challenge for future conferences is paramount to ensuring exhibitors receive adequate recognition and engagement with attendees. 

"Potential solutions include ensuring reliable distribution of digital guides before the event and exploring eco-friendly ways to provide printed materials.

"Additionally, enhancing app functionalities or incorporating interactive kiosks at the venue could help mitigate the impact of the absence of physical booklets, ensuring a smoother experience for all participants," she explained.

The ACME Multi Tech Services Ltd boss said that Nigerian indigenous companies have shown impressive progress in service delivery, technical competence, and capacity building, receiving praise in these areas. 

She explained that there improvements in operational excellence and innovation within the oil and gas sector are becoming more apparent, underscoring their dedication to maintaining high standards.

According to her, "This advancement not only facilitates their growth but also propels Nigeria's overall economic development, solidifying its position as a key player in the global oil and gas industry. New House International Limited aims to increase its impact at global oil and gas conferences by expanding strategically, enhancing presentations, forming partnerships, ramping up marketing, and prioritizing innovation. 

This involves securing bigger exhibition areas, improving presentation quality with interactive displays, forging key alliances, intensifying marketing endeavors, and highlighting industry trends.

Through these actions, the company seeks to boost its global presence, effectively engage conference attendees, and solidify its position as a prominent player in the international oil and gas sector.

To enhance participation in next year's conference, prioritizing quality service delivery and raising standards is essential.

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