Port Harcourt has officially been declared Nigeria’s Premier Energy City by the Society of Energy Editors during a landmark ceremony held at the Government House. The event celebrated the city’s historic contribution to the national economy and outlined its ambitious future as a leading energy hub in Africa.

Speaking on behalf of the State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd.) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a secure, fiscally disciplined, and investor-friendly environment. He described the designation as both an honor and a challenge to accelerate growth in sectors such as gas, refining, petrochemicals, and renewable energy.

In his address, Vice Admiral Ibas highlighted Port Harcourt’s historical significance, calling it “Nigeria’s energy heritage and the cradle of the nation’s industrial dreams.” He emphasized that the city has carried the promise of national prosperity since the first oil discovery in Oloibiri in 1956.

“This investiture affirms our history, but it does more—it challenges us to go further. Port Harcourt is not just Nigeria’s energy capital; it is destined to become the energy capital of Africa,” he declared.

As part of the ceremony, a five-pillar strategy was unveiled to cement Port Harcourt’s new status:

• Energy Diversification: Promoting solar, wind, hydro, and gas alongside petroleum sectors.
• Local Value Addition: Increasing local content across the energy value chain, prioritizing Rivers State citizens.
• Infrastructure Development: Establishing a regional energy hub with modern infrastructure and global pipeline connections.
• Environmental Stewardship: Ensuring sustainable practices to protect waterways, farmlands, and communities.
• Global Reintegration: Seeking readmission into the World Energy Cities Partnership (WECP) and launching an Annual International Energy Conference and Exhibition.

A major highlight was the announcement of an upcoming Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between the Rivers State Government and the Society of Energy Editors. According to the Society’s Chairman, Malam Yakubu Lawal, the partnership aims to attract global investments and position Port Harcourt among the world’s leading energy cities.

Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, Vice Chancellor of Rivers State University, delivered the keynote address, tracing Port Harcourt’s energy journey since 1956. He stressed the need for renewable energy integration, improved collaboration, and investments in education and youth skill development.

The Rivers State Government urged private investors to take advantage of the city’s evolving energy landscape and encouraged young innovators to bring forward transformative ideas for the sector.

With this official recognition, Port Harcourt solidifies its role as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s energy narrative honoring its rich past while powering the future of Africa’s energy economy.