By Stephanie Daniels
The Association of Energy Correspondents of Nigeria (NAEC), a professional body of seasoned journalists with a commitment to promoting accurate reporting and informed discourse on Nigeria’s energy and extractive industries, has successfully hosted the 2025 edition of its Annual Conference at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos.
With the theme “Nigeria’s Energy Future: Exploring Opportunities and Addressing Risks for Sustainable Growth”, the event brought together key stakeholders, policymakers, and industry leaders to brainstorm on the pathways toward a sustainable and resilient energy industry for Nigeria.
This year’s event which also featured multiple categories of awards to deserving and celebrated leading industry players had recognized a number of firms, including Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), Seplat Energy, Pinnacle Oil & Gas Limited, Falcon Corporation, Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), Oando Plc, as well as the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), among others.
These organizations were honoured for their outstanding contributions in the advancement of Nigeria’s energy industry through innovation, sustainability, and responsible operations.
Their continued commitment to excellence and industry leadership has helped to shape a more resilient and sustainable energy future for the country.
Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Ltd, was given an award for its commitments in the ongoing “Sustainability Initiatives” as NAEC celebrated its 2025 energy industry feast.
Sterling Oil is one of Africa’s fastest-growing exploration and production Company which has been known for its impactful environmental sustainability programmes, especially its excellent record in ESG application in the energy industry which has also been adjudged to align with environmental procedures and safeguards.
Its initiatives include, among others, a clear emphasis on Green Energy Transition, with over 90 per cent of its heavy and light vehicle fleet now running on compressed natural gas (CNG).
In its Eco-Friendly Marine Operations, the major fleet of operational barges has been upgraded to double-hull structures, significantly enhancing protection for rivers and aquatic ecosystems.
Additionally, the company has achieved a significant reduction in routine gas flaring by converting more waste gas into usable energy.
Sterling Oil’s broader sustainability initiatives include the deployment of state-of-the-art recycling machines across its sites, each capable of processing 100 kg of waste per hour.
Its afforestation programme targets the planting of 10,000 trees annually, supported by an integrated network of green infrastructure of over 1,000 sq. metres of green nets aimed at nurturing more than 25,000 seedlings, with additional greenhouses which are already and currently under construction.
These efforts are reinforced by round-the-clock workforce, coupled with prompt application of native species – both of which have contributed in achieving an impressive 60- 80 per cent tree survival rate, regarded as a rare feat in large-scale tree planting adventure
Speaking during the event, Dr. Chris Offokansi, General Manager, Human Resources and Industrial Relations at the Company expressed appreciation to NAEC.
He said: “At Sterling Oil, we believe true success is measured by the positive impact we have on the world around us. Our commitment goes beyond compliance—it is about shaping a better, safer future. We align our progress with sustainability at every level and take pride in the steps we’ve taken to reduce our environmental footprint.
Sterling Oil’s story is one of transformation, from a fast-growing oil and gas leader to a symbol of sustainable progress.
“With a focus on measurable impact, innovation, and accountability, the company is proving that Africa’s energy future can be clean, inclusive, and resilient. As the company celebrates this recognition through this meritorious award, one thing is clear: Sterling Oil is not just powering Africa; it’s preserving it.
During his opening remarks, Chairman of NAEC, Mr. Ugo Amadi noted that “The introduction of the awards segment has marked a new chapter in the history of our annual conference. It is designed to celebrate excellence and recognize organizations driving positive change within Nigeria’s energy landscape. By highlighting these achievements, NAEC aims to inspire greater commitment to innovation and sustainability in the industry.”
Known for its quality contents, this year’s event featured thought-provoking insights from eggheads and industry experts who navigated the industry landscape in Nigeria, emphasizing the urgent need for effective collaboration while exploring strategies necessary to achieving strong data-driven processes across all spectrum of the industry.
A major highlight of this year’s conference was the launch of a sustainability partnership between Sterling Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO) and NAEC, dedicated to promoting sustainability awareness, responsible energy practices, and capacity building within the media and energy industry.
Through this collaboration, both organizations reaffirm their shared commitment to putting smiles on the people’s faces furtherance to transforming lives across communities where they carry out their operations.
“This award serves as a clarion call that our journey has just begun. Thus a call on our industry stakeholders and colleagues, not excluding the three tiers of government – that we all lend our weight in this drive for innovation and sustainability, to ensure a better and greener future for generations to come.”