-Felix Douglas
In his welcome address on behalf of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), Chairman, Engr. Nick Odinuwe made it known to stakeholders and delegates that it is his utmost pleasure to welcome them to the conference. In his words, “Today, we embark on a journey that holds immense potential for the African continent and its thriving content industry. It is an honor to have all of you here, representing diverse sectors of the industry and sharing a common goal of propelling African content to new heights. But let us also remember that the heart of African content lies in its authenticity.”
“As the Chairman of PETAN, I am honored to stand before you, representing an association that has been at the forefront of driving innovation and growth in the petroleum industry. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond oil and gas, as we recognize the transformative power of African content and its ability to shape narratives, inspire change, and drive economic growth.”
“The Next Steps: Accelerating African Content” is a theme that resonates deeply with us. It signifies our collective determination to propel African content to new heights, to break barriers, and to create opportunities for our talented content creators. We firmly believe that the time has come for Africa to take center stage, to showcase its rich cultural heritage, and to tell its stories to the world.”
According to the PETAN Chairman, in this rapidly evolving digital landscape, technology has become an enabler, allowing stakeholders to connect, create, and distribute content like never before. “We have witnessed the power of African storytelling, the creativity of our filmmakers, the brilliance of our musicians, and the depth of our literary works. Now, it is time to build upon these foundations and accelerate the growth of African content. As we accelerate, let us ensure that we preserve the essence of what makes African content so unique and powerful.”
The gathering is not only to discuss strategies and share insights, but also to foster collaborations that will drive acceleration. This is a unique opportunity to leverage on collective strengths, to pool resources, and to create an ecosystem that nurtures talent, fosters innovation, and empowers content creators.
At the 7th SAIPEC, Odinuwe advocated for an integrated certification for African countries as practiced in America, the European Union, and Britain Canada. This will eliminate multiple certifications domiciled outside of the sub-Sahara Africa, strengthens our regulatory capacities and the associated huge foreign exchange impact this practice has on the continent.
It will also simplify processes, reduce costs, enhance competitiveness, attract investment, develop local capacity, and promote harmonization. These benefits contribute to the growth and development of the African economy and improve the continent’s position in the global market. I still believe that is the right direction.
“We ask that governments & institutions to reframe & desist from illegally taking oil& gas industry stakeholders contributed local content development funds as part its budgetary allocations. The funds are equally not surplus or idle funds.”
The backbone of local content is community engagement and participation. Sustainable local content initiatives rely on active involvement from the local community to create, produce, and consume content that represents their interests and values. When the community takes ownership of the content creation process, it ensures authenticity, relevance, and a deeper connection to the environment.
“As we embark on this journey, let us remember that the next steps require boldness, resilience, innovation, adaptability, and collaboration. We must embrace new technologies, leverage & explore digital platforms, and leverage data-driven insights to reach wider audiences as well as unconventional distribution models. This is the time to push boundaries, challenge conventional norms, and create content that captivates the globe.
But let us also remember that the heart of African content lies in its authenticity. Our stories are rooted in our history, our struggles, and our triumphs. They reflect the diversity and richness of our continent. As we accelerate, let us ensure that we preserve the essence of what makes African content so unique and powerful.”
Throughout the conference, stakeholders will have opportunity to learn from each other, to be inspired by success stories, and to collectively overcome challenges. Together, they can build an ecosystem that not only amplifies African voices but also creates sustainable economic opportunities for content creators.
Odinuwe enjoined delegates and participants to embrace next steps, and accelerate African content to new heights. “I am confident that with our collective efforts, we can shape a future where African stories resonate globally, where African talent thrives, and where African content becomes a driving force for positive change.”
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