Nigeria energy sector sees new leadership and gender inclusion focus

Dr. Ainojie Irune, Executive Director of Oando Plc and Managing Director of Oando Energy Resources, has been appointed to the governing board of the World Energy Council’s Nigerian Member Committee. The board was inaugurated in Abuja on August 7, with Abdulrazaq Isa serving as chairman. The committee includes various professionals from academia, policy, and the energy industry, intended to represent Nigeria in international energy discussions.

Separately, Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), has reaffirmed her commitment to advancing gender inclusion within Nigeria’s maritime and energy sectors. Speaking at the 5th anniversary of the Women in Maritime and Energy (WIME) Awards in Lagos, Eyesan noted that women remain underrepresented in upstream operations due to structural and cultural barriers. She advocated for policies supporting diversity in licensing, workforce participation, and dedicated financing for women-led enterprises.