In the evolving energy landscape of Africa, where nations are increasingly seeking self-reliance, energy security, and sustainable industrial growth, Engr. Momoh Jimah Oyarekhua stands out as one of the continent’s foremost champions of indigenous capacity building and modular refining. His participation as a speaker at the upcoming Africa Energy Technology Conference (AETC 2025)—slated for May 27–29, 2025, at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra, Ghana—is a significant highlight for stakeholders eager to explore practical solutions to Africa’s refining and fuel distribution challenges.
With a career spanning over 30 years in the Oil and Gas Sector, Engr. Oyarekhua has built a legacy rooted in technical excellence, entrepreneurial boldness and an unwavering belief in the potential of local content to drive the continent’s energy transformation. As the Chairman of OPAC Refineries and Founder of OMSA Integrated Services Ltd., he has led major strategic initiatives that address critical gaps in Nigeria’s petroleum industry. His academic background in Mechanical Engineering, coupled with a deep business acumen honed through both local and international training—including Executive Programs at the Harvard Business School, has positioned him as a thought leader with a strong grasp of the technical, economic, and policy dimensions of the energy sector.
Perhaps most notable, is his pioneering work in modular refining. In 2017, under his leadership, OMSA Integrated Services Ltd made a bold investment in OPAC Refineries, a modular refinery project in Kwale, Delta State, aimed at increasing Nigeria’s domestic refining capacity. This initiative was not just an industrial investment; it was a strategic move to reduce Nigeria’s over-reliance on imported refined petroleum products, create local jobs and contribute to energy stability. The project has since become a symbol of the growing viability of modular refineries as a decentralized, scalable solution to refining deficits in Africa.
Beyond his executive roles, Engr. Oyarekhua has also played a pivotal part in shaping industry policy and advocacy. As the pioneer Chairman of the Crude Oil Refinery-Owners Association of Nigeria (CORAN), he has worked tirelessly to make the voice of modular refinery operators heard in national discourse. Under his stewardship, CORAN has become a respected stakeholder in Nigeria’s energy sector, pushing for regulatory reforms, investment incentives and public-private collaboration necessary to scale modular refining efforts.
His appearance at AETC 2025, is expected to provide valuable insight into how modular refineries can play a transformative role not just in Nigeria, but across Africa. He will likely address the strategic importance of localized refining solutions, the practical challenges of financing and regulation and the need for regional cooperation in developing resilient energy infrastructure. At a time when many African countries are grappling with energy poverty, supply disruptions and the environmental implications of traditional refining methods, his voice brings both experience and vision.
The Africa Energy Technology Conference serves as a platform for thought leadership, collaboration and innovation across the energy spectrum. With speakers like Engr. Oyarekhua, the Conference promises to deliver actionable insights that will help shape Policy, attract Investments and empower local Entrepreneurs to lead Africa’s energy future. His contribution will be especially relevant to discussions on Refining, Downstream Development and the Broader Energy Transition—making his participation one of the most anticipated segments of the event.
Secure your place now! Visit www.aetconference.com or contact +23326 880 0800 | +233 50 251 9909 for sponsorship, participation, and registration.
