Port Harcourt recognised as Nigeria’s energy city by association of editors

Port Harcourt has been recognised as Nigeria’s premier energy city by the Society of Energy Editors.

In a statement on Wednesday, Hector Igbikiowubo, senior special adviser on media to the Rivers state government, said the ceremony, which was held at the government house, was described as both a historic recognition of the city’s legacy and a bold commitment to positioning it as a continental energy leader.

Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, the administrator of Rivers, reaffirmed the state government’s unwavering commitment to fostering an environment where energy investments can thrive.

Ibas, represented by Ibibia Worika, secretary to the state government, pledged robust security, fiscal discipline, and investor-friendly policies to make ventures in gas, crude refining, and petrochemicals both viable and profitable.

“Port Harcourt is Nigeria’s energy heritage and the cradle of the nation’s industrial dreams,” the administrator said.

“From the discovery of oil in Oloibiri to the establishment of refineries and petrochemical complexes, Rivers state has carried the weight and promise of Nigeria’s prosperity.

“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.”

The administrator outlined a strategic five-pillar plan to consolidate the new designation, which includes energy diversification, local value addition, infrastructure development, environmental stewardship, and global reintegration.

The statement added that a key outcome of the event was the announcement of a forthcoming memorandum of agreement (MoA) between the Rivers state government and the Society of Energy Editors.

“This partnership, as revealed by the Society’s Chairman, Malam Yakubu Lawal, is designed to open doors for international investment, elevate the city’s global prestige, and establish an annual international conference to showcase Port Harcourt alongside 15 other globally recognized energy cities,” Igbikiowubo said.

In his keynote address, Isaac Zeb-Obipi, vice-chancellor of Rivers State University, emphasised the critical need for diversification into gas and renewables.

Zeb-Obipi also called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders, balanced energy journalism, and educational reforms to empower youth with future-ready skills.

Also, the Rivers state government invited the private sector to invest “with courage and responsibility,” while encouraging the youth to bring their creativity and innovation into the energy space to strengthen Port Harcourt’s place as the heart of Nigeria’s energy future.