Daere Akobo, a prominent figure in the African energy sector, delivered a compelling call to action at the Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC) 2025, held in Lagos, Nigeria. He emphasized the urgent need for increased investment in youth-focused technological innovation as the cornerstone of Africa’s economic transformation. Akobo, who serves as Chairman of PANA Holdings and Group Chief Executive Officer of PE Energy Limited, argued that fostering a new generation of tech-savvy professionals is paramount to unlocking the continent’s vast potential and securing its future prosperity. He underscored the critical role of mentorship, innovation, and global competitiveness in technology-driven sectors as key drivers of this transformation. His message resonated with the conference theme of charting sustainable growth pathways for Africa in the global economy.
Akobo’s address went beyond a simple call for investment. He challenged the prevailing approach to policymaking, advocating for a people-centric approach. He argued that policies devoid of human capital considerations are destined to fail, emphasizing the importance of strategic frameworks that empower young professionals. He lauded the Nigerian Petroleum Regulatory Commission for its existing mentorship programs, recognizing their positive contribution in shaping future industry leaders. However, he cautioned against complacency, warning of a potential “youthquake”—a disruptive chasm in youth engagement—if the current generation isn’t adequately equipped with the necessary skills to drive Africa’s economic engine. This potential disruption highlights the risks of neglecting youth development and the urgent need to bridge the skills gap.
Further elaborating on his vision for youth engagement, Akobo critiqued the current trend of digital platform usage among young people. While acknowledging the pervasiveness of digital technology, he argued for a shift in focus from entertainment-centric applications towards utilizing technology to address critical challenges in key sectors like agriculture, energy, and industrial development. He envisioned a future where young Africans leverage technology to develop innovative solutions for these sectors, driving economic growth and societal progress. This shift, according to Akobo, would not only unlock the potential of young people but also address critical developmental needs across the continent.
Akobo’s central argument revolved around the importance of maximizing the return on investment in talent development. He stressed the need for policymakers to align their strategies with human capital growth, emphasizing that this is not merely a desirable outcome but a prerequisite for long-term economic success. He argued that investing in the education, training, and development of young Africans is not simply a social responsibility but a strategic imperative for sustainable economic growth. This focus on human capital, according to Akobo, is the key to unlocking Africa’s potential and ensuring its competitiveness in the global economy.
The SAIPEC 2025 conference, held from February 11th to 13th in Lagos, provided a significant platform for Akobo’s message. As the largest industry-led energy event in Sub-Saharan Africa, the conference attracted key stakeholders from across the energy sector, including industry leaders, policymakers, and experts. Organized by the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) in partnership with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and NNPC Limited, SAIPEC 2025 served as a crucial forum for discussing and shaping the future of Africa’s energy sector and its role in the global economy. The conference provided a timely opportunity to address critical issues and chart a course for sustainable growth.
Akobo’s call for youth-focused technological investment resonated within the broader context of the SAIPEC 2025 conference. The event focused on exploring pathways for Africa’s sustainable growth in the global economy, with discussions centering on crucial themes such as energy security, technological advancements, and human capital development. Akobo’s message aligned perfectly with these themes, emphasizing the critical role of young people in driving innovation and shaping the future of the African energy landscape. His address underscored the need for a concerted effort to empower the next generation and equip them with the tools and skills necessary to navigate the complex challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
