The International Forum for Women in Energy, Oil, and Gas (WEOG) has urged the Federal Government to boost production capacity in the sector by welcoming more investors to foster more sustainable growth.
This appeal was expressed by Mrs. Okekpolo Ogochuku, the pioneering director of WEOG, Delta Chapter, during the investiture, inauguration, and induction of the Delta Chapter of the forum on Friday.
Ogochuku, while addressing newsmen on the sidelines, said that Nigeria was an energy-driven nation.
She added that whatever affects the oil and gas industry has a multiplier effect on every other sector.
The theme of the one-day investiture, inauguration, and induction event was “Overcoming Gender Bias and Stereotypes in the Energy Sector.”
Ogochuku averred that the prices of energy were driven by the market forces of demand and supply.
She, therefore, urged the Federal Government to increase the capacity of production by allowing more investors to participate in the sector.
“We should think of more economic ways of production. We should open up the oil and gas sector for more investors to come in.
“We have a lot of gas reserves that we are flaring. It can be converted into usable energy to power so many things.
“Gas flaring does not only degenerate the environment; it is also a waste of resources.
“The oil and gas industry has a lot of by-products that can be useful in developing our economy,” she said
Speaking on ways to address gas flaring in the country, the energy expert advocated improved technology and innovations.
According to her, the government had not fully explored opportunities in the oil and gas sector, noting that “we are only extracting and exporting crude oil.”
The pioneering director said that it was time the government began to avail women of opportunities to play active roles in leadership positions, especially in the energy sector.
“I think that the government should begin to create rooms for women to bring their diverse views and expertise to the table.
“All over the world, the agenda of diversity, equity, and inclusion is gaining so much visibility and focus.
“God made it male and female; even in leadership, men should not be alone. Women should be there to lend their voices because, by nature, they are mothers, nurturers, and they grow things,” she said.
In her acceptance speech, Ogochuku said that her priority agenda was to create awareness about the forum in Delta.
She also promised to reach out to women in the host communities, who, according to her, were stakeholders in oil and gas.
“They can take advantage of the opportunities in their respective communities.
“This body is all about support, collaborations, and growth for women within the energy sector,” she said.
Meanwhile, the wife of the Olu of Warri, Olori Atuwatse 111, noted in her keynote address that women had not been accorded full participation and recognition in the oil and gas sector.
Olori, who was represented by Chief Ebiyemi Omatseye, said that the time has come to change the narrative.
She averred that diversity, which leads to better decision-making, increased innovation, and improved financial performance, is a strategic imperative for the success and sustainability of the industry.
“Your induction is not just a formality but a recognition of your commitment to ensure the growth of the industry. You are a beacon of hope for the upcoming generation.
“As we embark on this journey together, let us remember that the energy sector is not just a goal but a strategic imperative for a sustainable future.
“It is time to break away from the shackles of bias and stereotypes.
“I congratulate this chapter and challenge you to be champions of change, to be leaders who create ways for a more lucrative and dynamic energy sector,” Olori said.
Delta Coordinator, Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Mr Victor Ohwodiasa, in his goodwill message, commended the forum and promised to collaborate to help it achieve its noble objectives.
Dignitaries in attendance included Mr Vincent Oyibode, Delta Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Princess Ajudua, Delta Commissioner for Women Affairs, and royal fathers, among others.
Source: Nigerian Tribune
