The OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week marks its 20th anniversary with a four‑day conference and trade exhibition in Lagos from 26 to 29 October, aiming to unlock new investment streams and deepen regional petroleum commerce. Organisers anticipate participation from policymakers, regulators, operators, financiers and service providers across Africa and beyond.
**What will the forum address?**
The event will examine ways to improve energy security, raise refining capacity and integrate African energy markets. Key topics include refining, gas processing, storage, logistics and emerging energy solutions that could raise local production and retain greater value within the continent.
**Who is leading the discussion?**
Mrs. Joyce Akabogu, Chief Executive Officer of OTL Downstream Development in Africa, explained that the conference will focus on converting Africa’s abundant resources and expanding refining capabilities into reliable supplies, competitive enterprises and affordable energy for households and businesses. She highlighted that the anniversary edition arrives at a pivotal moment for the sector.
**Why is the theme important?**
The conference runs under the banner “Secure Energy, Shared Prosperity.” Akabogu said the slogan ties together the need for investment, innovation and cooperation to meet supply challenges and ensure that growth benefits both enterprises and consumers.
> “Africa’s energy security must be measured by what businesses and households > experience: reliable supply, assured quality and costs that allow enterprise > and everyday life to thrive,” she stated.
The gathering is expected to showcase opportunities for financing new refineries, expanding gas infrastructure, improving storage facilities and fostering cross‑border trade, thereby supporting the continent’s broader economic development goals.
[OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week](https://www.otlafrica.com) is hosted at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, a venue that underscores the city’s role as a hub for regional energy dialogue.
[Energy in Nigeria](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Energy_in_Nigeria) continues to attract attention as governments and private actors seek to close supply gaps and lower fuel costs for Nigerians.
The conference will also feature a trade exhibition where service providers can display technologies and solutions that align with the “Secure Energy, Shared Prosperity” agenda.