The Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) has disclosed plans to introduce an upgraded, more flexible modular refinery as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s domestic refining capability and promote technological self-sufficiency in the oil and gas sector.
PTI Principal and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Samuel Onoji, made this known on Monday during a world press conference in Abuja ahead of the 4th Biennial International Conference on Hydrocarbon Science and Technology (ICHST 2025), scheduled for October 22–23 at the PTDF Towers, Central Business District.
According to Onoji, the institute is collaborating with various industry stakeholders to develop indigenous technologies that can drive exploration, drilling, and refining activities within Nigeria.
He explained that the modular refinery initiative is part of PTI’s broader strategy to close existing technological gaps and enable Africa to manage its vast hydrocarbon resources sustainably amid the global energy transition.
“PTI, in partnership with other organisations, is working tirelessly to advance local technologies that will expand crude production and processing. We have over five decades of experience in oil and gas, and we are leveraging that to design a more efficient and adaptable modular refinery capable of refining crude oil locally,” Onoji stated.
He added that the institute has also made significant progress in drilling technology training, highlighting the use of the Drill 6000 simulation equipment for hands-on learning in oil drilling operations.
“With our facilities, we are training experts who will master every stage from exploration and drilling to refining ensuring that, in a few years, Nigeria can fully harness its oil resources using homegrown technology,” he said.
Africa’s Role in the Energy Transition
Onoji emphasised that Africa, with an estimated 125 billion barrels of crude oil and 600 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, should not hastily abandon fossil fuels. Instead, he called for increased investment in research, innovation, and cleaner production technologies.
“The reality is that fossil fuels will continue to play a role in global energy demand for decades. Africa should therefore focus on developing local expertise and environmentally friendly technologies rather than rushing to phase them out,” he noted.
He warned that only a few African nations currently possess the capacity to manufacture vital oil and gas machinery, underscoring the importance of building local content and technical competence across the continent.
Focus of ICHST 2025
The forthcoming ICHST 2025, themed “Transforming Africa’s Hydrocarbon Sector: Balancing Growth, Environment and Governance,” will gather policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and international partners to deliberate on sustainable pathways for the continent’s energy future.
Onoji revealed that the conference will feature keynote addresses from the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil and Gas), heads of key regulatory bodies, and other distinguished experts.
Technical sessions will explore subjects such as exploration, decommissioning, artificial intelligence, robotics, and carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS).
The event will also provide a platform for students and early-career researchers to showcase innovations and develop competencies essential for the evolving energy landscape.
PTI’s Legacy and Vision
Established by Act No. 37 of 1972 (as amended), PTI serves as Nigeria’s foremost institution for manpower development in the petroleum sector, offering training, research, and consultancy services that support both domestic and international oil operations.
Over the past 53 years, the institute has produced thousands of skilled technicians, engineers, and researchers who now drive operations across the global energy industry.
Reaffirming PTI’s mission, Onoji said the institute remains committed to becoming Africa’s leading oil and gas technology hub through innovation, research, and strategic collaboration.
A Balanced Energy Future
PTI’s Director of Research and Development, Dr. Tina Isichei, echoed this vision, describing the notion that fossil fuels would vanish by 2050 or 2060 as impractical.
“Fossil fuels are more than just fuel they serve as essential feedstock for industries such as pharmaceuticals and manufacturing. The focus should be on reducing emissions and promoting sustainable practices,” she explained.
She added that PTI is actively pursuing carbon capture and utilisation technologies as well as renewable energy research to align growth with environmental responsibility.
The 2025 ICHST will commence with registration on Tuesday, October 21, followed by the official opening on Wednesday, October 22, and close on Thursday, October 23, 2025.
Since its inception in 2017, the biennial conference has served as a vital platform for knowledge exchange and innovation in oil and gas technology this fourth edition arriving at a crucial time as Africa navigates the balance between energy security and environmental sustainability.
