As part of its drive to enhance professional development in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) has inaugurated a new branch in Akwa Ibom State, known as the Uyo Section 255.
The official inauguration ceremony took place on Friday, August 8, 2025, at Four Points by Sheraton, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.
In his welcome address, Mr. Nkese Essien, Chairman of the newly inaugurated Uyo Section, expressed pride in the establishment of Section 255, now the sixth section under the SPE Nigeria Council, describing it as a landmark achievement.
Mr. Essien noted that the inauguration was not only a symbol of institutional growth but also a strategic step forward for Nigeria’s energy sector.
“Today marks a defining moment in our professional journey as we celebrate the establishment of the 6th SPE section under the Nigeria Council – right here in Akwa Ibom State.
This milestone is more than just institutional growth; it is a strategic advancement for Nigeria’s energy sector, particularly in a region that plays a vital role in the nation’s oil and gas production.”
Engr. Essien also reaffirmed the section’s commitment to professional growth, emphasizing that SPE’s work is rooted in technical expertise and must remain free of political interference.
“One of our core mandates is to drive professional development. Through Monthly Technical Meetings, Distinguished Lecture Series, workshops, and seminars, we will ensure members stay current with innovations and best practices. These will include both traditional domains – such as reservoir management, drilling, and production optimisation – and emerging areas like digital transformation, AI applications, and energy transition strategies.”
Dr. Riverson Oppong, SPE Africa Regional Director, praised the inauguration of the Uyo Section, describing it as a perfect fit for the organisation’s long-term vision. He expressed optimism about the section’s future and its potential to excel.
“The formation of this section is a direct reflection of that vision, as it reinforces our presence in one of Africa’s most significant energy-producing regions.
I am confident that this section will witness exponential growth, becoming a beacon of excellence within the SPE community.”
The inauguration was formally conducted by the Chairperson of the SPE Nigeria Council, Amina Danmadami, who encouraged members to pursue excellence in building the new section.
Delivering a goodwill message, the 2025 SPE President, Oliver Houzé, described the establishment of Uyo Section 255 as a notable accomplishment.
“The inauguration of a new section is not a small feat. It is also a proof of the dynamism of the SPE in Sub-Saharan Africa and Nigeria in particular,”he stressed.
Rt. Hon. Nsikak Ekong, The Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources, as represented by Engr. Aniebiet Emah, Director Petroleum Mineral Directorate, described the establishment of the SPE in Akwa Ibom as being timely, and aligning strongly with the State Government’s drive to unlock economic opportunities for growth through strategic partnerships and technical capacity development.
The event was witnessed by members of Society of Petroleum Engineers from various sections, students, oil industry players, as well members of the Nigeria Society of Engineers amongst others who offered goodwill messages.