The Nigerian Gas Association (NGA) has established a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) group to champion the drive for a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive oil and gas industry in Nigeria.

   
This move is expected to help the association to interrogate the status quo, identify relevant issues, challenges and opportunities in the sector and ultimately proffer recommendations to deliver the long overdue transformational changes on DEI.
   
Chaired by Engr Chichi Emenike, the DEI Study Group is tasked with developing programmes, solutions and awareness campaigns to support and create an environment where all individuals, regardless of background, abilities and gender, can thrive and contribute to the industry’s growth through strategic collaboration, and innovative initiatives, supported by the NGA’s unwavering commitment.
   
Other members of the DEI Study Group include Eyono Fatayi-Williams – Vice Chairperson, and Ekomobong Alfred – Secretary.
   
In alignment with the NGA’s objective, the DEI Study Group is collaborating with the Women In Energy Network (WIEN), a leading advocacy platform for women’s advancement in the energy sector. The DEI Study Group will leverage WIEN’s extensive network and its commitment to empowerment in bequeathing a more equitable and diverse energy sector.
 
Commenting on the initiative, Emenike stated: “We are keen on fostering a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion within the oil and gas industry by promoting valuable opportunities and support for women, whilst driving innovation, excellence and sustainable growth for the industry and beyond.

“We are proud to partner with WIEN on this mission, and together, we will be pioneering change, amplifying voices, and creating pathways for women to excel in their careers.” 
   
Also commenting on the DEI initiative, the President of NGA, Akachukwu Nwokedi, said: “We are convinced that the time is now for organisations like the NGA to lead in entrenching the core values of Diversity, Equality and Inclusion in the oil and gas industry, Nigeria’s economic driver to grow and sustain a more diverse workforce in the energy sector.”