The African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) has appointed Chioma Angela Onukogu as the Director of Board Affairs and Proceedings in the Office of the Secretary General and the General Secretariat, effective 16th April 2024.

Onukogu, a Nigerian national, brings over 25 years of expertise in corporate governance and international development cooperation. Her extensive experience includes maintaining the integrity of the Bank’s governance structures, resource mobilization and partnerships, managing country operations portfolios, and organizing high-level events.

Before this appointment, Onukogu was the Chief Board Programme and Quality Control Coordinator and Acting Director, Board Affairs and Proceedings, effectively supporting the Secretary General in ensuring a high-performing General Secretariat.

Previously, Onukogu was a Principal Resource Mobilization and Partnerships Officer, preparing key documents for the Mid-Term Review of ADF-13 and the ADF-14 replenishment, mobilizing trust fund resources, and managing partnerships. She also served as Country Programme Officer for Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Swaziland, and Zimbabwe, coordinating the preparation of Country Strategy Papers and monitoring the Bank’s portfolio in these countries.

She holds a master’s degree in Corporate and Commercial Law from the University of London, a master’s degree in international law and diplomacy from the University of Lagos, a Graduate Diploma in Law from the University of Law, London, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Lagos.

Commenting on her appointment, Ms. Onukogu said: “I thank President Adesina for his leadership, and I am grateful to him for the trust and confidence reposed in me by this appointment. I look forward to working under the leadership of the Secretary General in facilitating the decision-making processes of the governance organs of the Bank and forging better working relationships with the shareholders in their joint effort to deliver high-quality operations in support of the vision of an Africa that is prosperous, inclusive, resilient and integrated.”

 Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, said: “Ms. Onukogu is a well-tested hand at the Bank with good and blended work experience, having served in several key Departments across the Bank. Her strong experience in upholding the integrity of institutional and corporate governance structures of the Bank coupled with a strong institutional memory will be very useful in this role.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media Contact:
Olufemi Terry
African Development Bank Group
media@afdb.org

Marine LNG infrastructure developer Golar LNG has signed a Project Development Agreement (PDA) with the state-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) for the deployment of an FLNG facility offshore Niger Delta. With a capacity of 400-500 million standard cubic feet per day (MMscf/d), the facility will produce LNG, LPG and condensate. The companies are eyeing the end of 2024 to achieve a final investment decision (FID), with first gas production expected by 2027.

Representing the voice of the African energy sector, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) commends both the NNPC and Golar LNG for this industry milestone. The AEC believes that projects such as the FLNG facility will play an instrumental part in scaling up gas commercialization in Nigeria, laying the foundation for a new era of industrialization across the continent.

The Golar LNG-led FLNG facility will monetize proven gas reserves within shallow water acreage in Nigeria and falls under a broader national agenda to monetize the country’s offshore natural gas resources. According to the NNPC, the facility aligns closely with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate to leverage Nigerian gas for sustained economic growth and is a major milestone in strengthening commercialization through FLNG infrastructure.

The FLNG project represents just one of the many key developments underway in Nigeria. In May 2024, Nigeria inaugurated three new gas projects – the expanded AHL Gas Processing Plant, the ANOH Gas Processing Plant and the 23.3-km ANOH to Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben Custody Transfer Metering Station Gas Pipeline. Once operational, these projects will collectively supply 500 MMscf/d to the domestic market. Additionally, the development of the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline is progressing, with feasibility studies for the first section – which connects Morocco to Mauritania and Senegal – nearing completion. The $25-billion project anticipates FID in 2025.

Meanwhile, in 2023, the NNPC signed a Heads of Terms agreement with Nigerian oil and gas company UTM Offshore for the development of the country’s first indigenous FLNG project. In March 2024, the companies announced that the project was advancing to the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation and Commissioning phase. Energy major Shell has also unveiled plans to invest up to $1 billion over the next ten years to develop natural gas in Nigeria, drawing on a high level of global interest in the country’s gas market potential.

Nigeria’s robust pipeline of gas projects is supported by broader policy implementation, which aims to incentivize foreign investment and support project development. In 2021, the country launched its “Decade of Gas” initiative, which served to position gas as a catalyst for industrial growth in Nigeria. The initiative has been supported by additional policy reforms including Nigeria’s Petroleum Industry Act (2021) – which created a licensing framework for the natural gas industry, including provisions related to gas pricing, distribution, flaring and tax incentives; the Nigerian Energy Transition Plan; and the Nigerian Gas Flaring Commercialization Program. These policies place gas as a central engine for economic growth and promote investment across the domestic and regional gas value chain.

“With over 200 trillion cubic feet of proven gas reserves – the largest in Africa – Nigeria is well-positioned to become a global hub for sustainable energy. The launch of the FLNG project by the NNPC and Golar LNG marks a crucial step towards bolstering gas commercialization in the country, with the project set to unlock a new wave of economic opportunities, job creation and infrastructure development. The AEC commends the efforts of Golar LNG to strengthen Africa’s natural gas infrastructure and looks forward to many more fruitful collaborations among African nations,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. 

The deal comes ahead of the Africa Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy conference – scheduled for November 4-8 in Cape Town – and represents a critical step towards advancing gas monetization in Nigeria. This year’s edition will host a dedicated Invest in Nigeria Energies country spotlight, providing unparalleled insight into the country’s energy sector opportunities. Projects such as the recently-launched FLNG facility – spearheaded by Golar LNG – will be showcased, with companies unpacking the wealth of opportunities available in the Nigerian market. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

AEW: Invest in African Energy is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

Exploration and production company Woodside Energy has achieved first oil production at Senegal’s inaugural offshore oil project – the Sangomar field development. This milestone underscores the effective collaboration between Woodside Energy and Senegal’s national oil company Petrosen, demonstrating their shared commitment to advancing energy security and industrialization across the MSGBC region.  

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) – the voice of the African energy sector and a strong advocate for oil and gas development in Africa – applauds the project partners for reaching this historic milestone. First production is poised to drive new opportunities for economic growth in the country and affirms the critical role oil and gas plays in Africa.

Phase one of the Sangomar field development stands as a testament to Senegal’s commitment to advancing its energy sector. The deepwater project represents a significant leap forward in technological innovation and project execution. At the heart of this endeavor lies the Léopold Sédar Senghor FPSO, stationed 100 km offshore Senegal. With a production capacity of 100,000 barrels per day and storage facilities capable of accommodating 1.3 million barrels, the FPSO vessel exemplifies Senegal’s capability to undertake and manage extensive energy endeavors on a significant scale.

The ambitious scope of phase one – comprising 23 wells with ongoing drilling activities – underscores Senegal’s determination to harness its natural resources for the benefit of its people. With a project cost of between $4.9 billion and $5.2 billion, Sangomar showcases the country’s ability to execute complex projects on schedule and within budget, further enhancing its reputation as an attractive investment destination.

“Credit must be given to Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill, Petrosen and the Woodside team for their gusto, resilience and commitment to delivering this project. The relentless drive in meeting their commitment to Senegal is impressive. In Woodside, Senegal would see a world class operator that is going to produce energy in a sustainable way and also champion local communities through robust local content and community outreach programs,” states NJ Ayuk Executive Chairman of the AEC.

The achievement of first oil from the Sangomar field represents a milestone not only for Senegal but for the entire MSGBC region. The project brings online a new energy source at a time when energy demand is projected to increase rapidly across the region and is poised to significantly reduce the reliance on imported petroleum. The project also underscores the potential for large-scale investments offshore Senegal, laying the foundation for new developments to kick off.

“Exploration is back on track as the MSGBC Basin now marries a great geological resource with a very strong balance sheet and it becomes more attractive. There is so much more oil and gas to be found in Senegal. Woodside’s success in the MSGBC Basin will see a new scramble for exploration that will boost oil production and keep prices low for citizens around the region,” adds Ayuk.

The next project on the horizon is the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) development, which anticipated first production by Q3/Q4 this year. The arrival of the FPSO vessel this month – which will process over 500 million standard cubic feet of gas per day – signifies a significant milestone for the project, enabling Senegal to utilize its abundant gas resources for domestic consumption and export. The development of the GTA project, along with plans for a gas-to-power plant near Saint-Louis, highlights Senegal’s strategic approach to energy infrastructure development, cultivating socio-economic growth and improving energy access for its citizens.

As Senegal transitions into an oil and gas-producing nation by late 2024, the role of hydrocarbons in the MSGBC landscape becomes increasingly pivotal. Oil and gas will continue to play a significant role in both the region and continent’s energy mix, serving as a crucial source of revenue and catalyst for a just energy transition.

“We believe the revenues from oil would empower Senegal’s government and citizens to develop their country. Senegal’s future is bright, but we can only secure that future by strengthening legislation, maintaining the sanctity of contracts, promoting an enabling environment, supporting local content, emphasizing education, following a balanced development paradigm, and utilizing the best skills in the oil and gas industry through partnerships. I am confident that both the government and Woodside will continue this strong working relationship and partnership to make Senegal the regional hub for energy,” Ayuk concluded.

First production comes ahead of the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy conference – scheduled for November 4-8 in Cape Town. During the event, a dedicated Invest in MSGBC Energies country spotlight will showcase the region’s potential as an investment destination and a hub for energy innovation and development.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

AEW: Invest in African Energy is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit http://www.AECWeek.com  for more information about this exciting event.

SLB (formerly known as Schlumberger) (www.SLB.com), a global technology leader in the energy sector, celebrated a significant milestone on 20th May 2024, marking 55 years of operations in Angola. SLB, with its global footprint and extensive experience, has been a pivotal player in Angola’s energy landscape.

By providing advanced technology and innovative solutions, the company has helped to optimize Angola’s oil and gas production, ensuring sustainable and efficient extraction of energy resources.

The celebration of SLB’s 55th anniversary in Angola was highlighted by a grand gala event held in Luanda, Angola and attended by distinguished guests, including Angola’s Secretary of State for Petroleum and Gas, H.E. José Alexandre Barroso.

H.E. Barroso, in his address, applauded SLB for its longstanding collaboration and support towards Angola’s socio-economic development.

SLB Managing Director, Central, East and Southern Africa – Miguel Baptista quotes: “55 years ago we took our first steps in Soyo-Zaire with the first log for Petrofina. Today, we have grown our foundation in Angola based on our core values of people, technology and performance.  We have built on this by growing partnerships, igniting capacity and increasing local spend; providing opportunities to local businesses, investing in infrastructure and growing our revenue contribution. We will remain steadfast in the next 55 years and more to come; combining our expertise, resources, and vision, to make significant strides in shaping a sustainable energy future for Angola”.

Addressing Energy Challenges in Angola

With a growing global population, the need and demand for more affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy is increasing. In Angola, energy access is a critical challenge, with many people remaining disconnected from the grid. The country’s energy matrix is heavily reliant on biomass, making it imperative to engage in solution-driven measures that utilize alternative and natural sources of energy.

Despite these challenges, oil and gas continue to represent 96% of Angola’s exports. Ensuring that energy production remains at a low-cost and as clean as possible is essential for the nation’s future. SLB’s commitment to driving energy innovation for a lower-carbon future is aligned with these needs.

Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Impact

SLB’s innovative technological solutions throughout the years have significantly improved Angola’s oil and gas industry. From the drilling of the Congo River crossing, which connected the gas from Cabinda to Angola LNG in Soyo, to the installation of Africa’s first and only subsea equipment factory, SLB’s journey in Angola is made of remarkable achievements.

In 2022, the company rebranded from a traditional oilfield services-focused company to one with a vision built on driving energy innovation for a lower carbon future. This vision has driven SLB’s actions in Angola, and as the company celebrates this significant milestone, it recognizes the importance of continuing its efforts towards a sustainable energy future for Angola and Africa at large.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of SLB.

Contact:
Racheal Luwedde
Communications Manager
Central, East and Southern Africa at SLB
RLuwedde@slb.com