The President of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE), Johnbosco Uche, has warned that Nigeria risks a sharp decline in crude oil production in the coming years if new exploration efforts and discoveries are not urgently prioritised.
Speaking at a media parley ahead of the 43rd Annual International Conference and Exhibition of NAPE, slated for November 9 to 13, 2025, in Lagos, Uche stressed that sustained investment in exploration is essential for the nation’s long-term energy security and economic stability.
This year’s conference, themed “Revitalising the Nigerian Petroleum Exploration and Production Strategies for Energy Security and Sustainable Development,” will focus on the country’s urgent need to balance energy availability, affordability, and environmental sustainability in an era of global energy transition.
“The theme speaks directly to the heart of Nigeria’s national priorities—ensuring energy availability, stability, and affordability while positioning our petroleum sector to thrive in a rapidly changing global energy environment,” Uche said.
He noted that as the world accelerates toward cleaner energy sources, Nigeria faces a dual challenge: sustaining its oil and gas production while preparing for a low-carbon future.
“We cannot achieve this without deliberate policy alignment, increased investment, and a renewed exploration drive,” he added.
Uche warned that without consistent exploration activities, Nigeria’s oil production could fall drastically within the next decade. He highlighted several urgent measures to reposition the sector, including the revival of mature basin exploration, policy reforms to attract investors, and the deployment of modern technologies to optimise field development.
“These measures are crucial if we are to meet the nation’s 2030 target of producing three million barrels of oil per day and 12 billion cubic feet of gas per day,” he said.
The NAPE president also underscored the need to accelerate gas development as a transition fuel to power industries, support economic growth, and promote cleaner energy. He called for expanded seismic data acquisition, strengthened geoscience research, and greater collaboration between government, academia, and industry stakeholders.
Uche revealed that the upcoming NAPE conference will feature an opening ceremony and convention luncheon, executive and technical sessions, and an awards night—all designed to drive dialogue and innovation across Nigeria’s energy value chain.
Describing the 2025 edition as “a pivotal gathering,” he said the conference will serve as a platform to shape strategies for achieving economic resilience and energy independence.
“As we strive to achieve economic stability and energy independence, our actions today must secure the energy of tomorrow,” he said. “NAPE remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that Nigeria’s petroleum industry continues to be a catalyst for national development and sustainability.”
He also commended the media for their continued support, describing journalists as vital partners in driving public engagement and understanding of Nigeria’s energy landscape.
“Your role in amplifying the national energy conversation remains invaluable. Together, let us continue to ensure that our ideas continue to find oil and gas,” he added.
The 43rd NAPE Annual International Conference and Exhibition will open officially on Monday, November 10, at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
