Stakeholders Set To Commemorate 70 Years Of Oil Discovery In Nigeria

By Eunice Nnachi

Plans are underway to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Nigeria’s oil discovery with a landmark event in January 2026.

The two-day event, dubbed the “Oloibiri Well Discovery Platinum Jubilee Anniversary,” aims to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders to reflect on the country’s oil industry journey since the historic 1956 discovery at Oloibiri in present-day Bayelsa State.

The anniversary will be attended by top government officials, oil and gas operators, local and international financial institutions, diplomats, environmentalists, and community leaders.
According to Eyinimi Omorozi, CEO of Mahogany 21st Century Concepts and event organiser, the event will serve as a platform to recognise the oil sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s economic development while addressing pressing issues concerning sustainability and the industry’s future.

“This event is organised to commemorate 70 years of oil discovery, a significant milestone in Nigeria’s economic and industrial history,” Omorozi stated.

The event, themed “70 Years of Oil Discovery in Nigeria: Reflecting on the Past, Shaping the Future,” will include keynote speeches, panel discussions, an oil and gas exhibition, the premiere of a documentary film, an international marathon, oil industry excellence awards, and cultural performances highlighting the heritage of oil-producing communities.

The Platinum Jubilee Anniversary is expected to serve as an important forum for strategic discussion about Nigeria’s oil and gas sector’s future trajectory, particularly in light of global energy transitions and the need for environmental stewardship.