The Association of Energy Correspondents of Nigeria (NAEC), a professional body of journalists dedicated 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 discuss pathways toward a sustainable and resilient energy sector for Nigeria.

This year’s awards featured multiple categories and celebrated leading industry players including Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), Seplat Energy, Pinnacle Oil & Gas Limited, Falcon Corporation, Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), Oando Plc, and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), among others.

These organisations were honoured for their outstanding contributions to advancing Nigeria’s energy sector through innovation, sustainability, and responsible operations.

Their continued commitment to excellence and industry leadership is helping to shape a more resilient and sustainable energy future for the nation.

In recognition of its continued commitment to recent sustainability initiatives, Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Ltd, was recognized as one of the awardees at the 2025 NAEC Awards.

Sterling Oil, one of Africa’s fastest-growing exploration and production firms, received the Sustainability Company of the Year award. Known for its impactful environmental sustainability programmes, the company advances ESG excellence in the energy sector by aligning operational performance with environmental responsibility.

Among its initiatives is 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 have 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 targeted annually, supported by an integrated network of green infrastructure of over1,000 sqm of green nets nurturing above 25,000 seedlings, with additional greenhouses under construction.

These efforts are reinforced by round-the-clock teams and the use of native species, achieving an impressive 60- 80 per cent tree survival rate— a rare feat in large-scale tree planting

Speaking during the event, Dr. Chris Offokansi, General Manager, Human Resources and Industrial Relations at Sterling Oil, expressed appreciation to the organisers.

He stated, “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 its recognition at the NAEC 2025 Awards, one thing is clear: Sterling Oil is not just powering Africa; it’s preserving it.

Mr. Ugo Amadi, Chairman of NAEC, noted during his opening remarks that “The introduction of this awards segment marks 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, sustainability, and industry leadership across the sector.”

The event featured thought-provoking insights from leading experts who explored the evolving Energy landscape in Nigeria and the urgent need for climate-resilient, collaboration and data-driven strategies across industries.

The NAEC Industry Excellence Awards is a new initiative introduced as part of the Association’s Annual Conference to recognise outstanding contributions within Nigeria’s energy sector. The maiden edition celebrates organisations and institutions demonstrating exceptional performance, innovation, and leadership in advancing sustainable growth and responsible industry practices.

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 organisations reaffirm their shared commitment to putting lasting smiles on faces and transforming lives across communities where they operate.
This award serves as a reminder that our journey is ongoing. Together with our stakeholders, colleagues, industry and with guidance from State and Federal government, we will continue to drive for innovation and sustainability, ensuring a better and greener future for generations to come.

• Energy News Stream
• Punch
• NCDMB
• Environment Africa
• ThisDay
• New Telegraph
• Major Waves Energy Report
• Environews
• Champion News
• Great Tribune
• Flagship News

The increasing urbanization, industrialization, and growing needs of mankind are affecting the environment’s well-being and sustainability across the globe. The impact is now evident, affecting us more closely than ever. In Nigeria, rising temperatures and heat waves are making life increasingly difficult. Whether in cities or villages, people struggle with extreme heat, especially during the dry season.

It is the need of the hour, and it is high time that institutions, governments, corporations, host communities, and societies come together to take serious action on the ground.

Pioneering on these very premises, one of the fastest-growing oil exploration and production companies in Africa, Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO), is continuously and quietly working towards its sustainability goals, reinforcing its commitment to Nigeria, Africa, and environmental sustainability through a large-scale tree-planting initiative launched last year.

In this drive, SEEPCO has successfully planted 10,000 trees as part of its corporate citizenship approach to environmental conservation. This activity is ongoing this year as well.

One of the company’s spokespersons stated, “Our commitment to environmental sustainability goes beyond compliance; it is our responsibility to drive measurable impact and shape a cleaner, greener future. For us, progress means the growth of our business together with our employees, people, communities, society, and the nation at large.”

The Go Green initiative of SEEPCO aligns with global sustainability goals and Nigeria’s efforts to combat deforestation, air pollution, and rising temperatures. It also aims to enhance biodiversity, reduce carbon footprints, and create greener communities.

As part of this commitment, SEEPCO targets the planting of 10,000 trees annually through its afforestation drive. This effort is supported by in-house green nets covering over 1,000 sqm, sprouting over 28,000 seedlings yearly, while greenhouses spanning 2,000 sqm are under construction to expand seedling production. The planted trees, which include species such as Neem, Crape Myrtle, Golden Shower, and Flamboyant, are expected to achieve a 60-80% survival rate, with dedicated 24×7 teams ensuring their continuous care through watering, mulching, pruning, and other essential horticultural practices.

SEEPCO continues to engage key stakeholders, including representatives from NOSDRA and FMEnv, who have actively participated in the tree-planting exercises. The initiative has also garnered enthusiastic support from employees, with many volunteering to take part in the reforestation efforts.

Sterling Oil, one of the fastest-growing exploration and production companies in Africa, defines success not just by business growth but by the positive change it brings. At SEEPCO, true success means making a lasting impact. Our commitment to environmental sustainability goes beyond compliance; it is our responsibility to drive measurable impact and shape a cleaner future. For us, progress goes together with going green.

• Guardian
• Vanguard
• Defender
• The Tide

Women, the pillars of our society, are resilient and determined as they play essential roles in nurturing families and leading businesses. Despite facing challenges like limited financial resources and unequal opportunities, they persist, inspiring generations and driving positive change.

In honour of Women’s History Month, Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), in collaboration with Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Co. Ltd. (SEEPCO) and the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (LDSVA), embarked on a transformative journey to empower 100 community women, focusing on sexual and domestic violence prevention, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship, on March 27, 2024, in Eti-Osa LGA, Lagos State.

When women are empowered, they become catalysts for progress, influencing not only their own lives but also the lives of their families and those around them. The programme gave the women the opportunity to acquire knowledge on tools that can help their businesses grow, also providing a safe space for women to learn and connect with others, making them feel more confident and capable in making decisions for their businesses.

Distinguished guests present at the event were Mrs. Bello Oluwakemi, Head of the Field Operations Department, Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (LDSVA), Chief Mrs. Eletu-Odibo Wasilat, Community Development Committee Chairman of Eti-Osa LGA, Lagos State, and Mrs. Adenike Akintoye, Head of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Unit, Eti Osa LGA. 

While giving her feedback, Chief Mrs. Eletu-Odibo Wasilat said, “community-driven efforts like this initiative are instrumental in driving sustainable change and enabling women to realise their full potential.”

Mrs. Bello Oluwakemi noted during her closing remark, “training women in our communities will improve their livelihoods and contribute to household income, thereby leading to better standards of living.”

This collaborative initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – Gender Equality (SDG 5) and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), which aim to ensure everyone is treated equally and reduce differences between people. 

VCDF will continue to educate and empower women for a greater inclusion in society, supporting their advancement and ensuring their meaningful participation in all spheres of life. Together, let us continue to champion the cause of women, celebrate their achievements, and pave the way for a brighter and more equitable future for all.

• Vanguard
• Guardian
• Business Day
• The Sun
• Tribune

Living healthy lives can be enabled by embracing and maintaining cleanliness in our urban surroundings, we not only enhance the hygiene of our streets and drains but also contribute to mitigating the adverse effects of pollution and promoting a sustainable future for generations to come.

On April 6th, 2024, a community-driven initiative took to the streets of Victoria Island, Lagos, in a concerted effort to combat littering, blocked drains, thereby reducing flooding and the deteriorating cleanliness of the neighborhood. 

The Street Hygiene and Cleanliness Campaign, organized by the Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), in collaboration with Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Co. Ltd. (SEEPCO), Iru-Victoria Island LCDA and Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) saw an impressive turnout of volunteers and stakeholders determined to make a tangible difference in their environment.

The campaign aimed to promote cleanliness and environmental sustainability in Victoria Island, addressing issues like littering, improper waste disposal and consequent flooding. By providing donations of sanitation tools like rakes, pickers, brooms, and bin bags as well as personal protective equipment like coveralls and gloves, VCDF inspired volunteers and stakeholders to take proactive steps to stop the spread of disease, build community pride, and maintain a clean environment.

The dignitaries present at the event were Princess (Hon.) Rasheedat Abiodun Adu, Executive Chairperson, Iru-Victoria Island LCDA; Mrs. Ogabi Adetokunbo, Council Manager; Mr. S.O. Omoteji, Head of Human Resources, Mr. Odu Olufemi, Head of the Environment, all from Iru Victoria Island LCDA; Mrs. Aramide Olaniyan, Head of Corporate Engagement,  Mr. Ebenezer Otubu,  Deputy Head, Street Sanitation Services and Mr. Gbenga Adebayo Fagbola, Regional Manager, Lagos East 1, Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA).

Beyond the immediate benefits of an immaculate surrounding, it has encouraged a culture of social responsibility among the workforce and promoted community unity. 

Speaking at the event, Mr. Odu Olufemi said, ‘the VCDF initiative is praiseworthy, and maintaining effective sanitation practices is essential for ensuring a healthier Lagos State through recycling materials, segregating waste, desilting drainage systems, and clearing sidewalks for safety and easy access.’

Mrs. Aramide Olaniyan expressed, ‘together, we are not only cleaning streets but also spreading awareness about the value of environmental stewardship for a better tomorrow.’

VCDF is dedicated to embracing sustainability to protect healthy habitats and foster a culture of social responsibility, ensuring the welfare of current and future generations.

By coming together to tackle environmental challenges, residents and stakeholders demonstrated their commitment to creating a cleaner, safer, and more vibrant neighborhood for all.

• Guardian
• Vanguard
• The Nation
• Business Day
• Leadership
• Daily Trust
• Philanthropy News