By Genesis Ogiri
Nigeria — The Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Robotics and Autonomous Systems Technical Section (RAS TS) has announced the appointment of Eur ING Dr. Chinedu Ogwus as Regional Director for Nigeria and West Africa for the 2025–2026 term. The appointment underscores his distinguished contributions to engineering, automation, and energy innovation, positioning him to play a defining role in advancing robotics and autonomous systems across the region.
Under Dr. Ogwus’ forward-thinking leadership, West Africa is projected to evolve into a global reference point for technological excellence, energy innovation, and industrial transformation. Analysts note that his stewardship is expected to accelerate the adoption of advanced robotics and autonomous solutions within the energy and industrial sectors—enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening sustainability frameworks, and bridging local expertise with international best practices. This momentum is poised to elevate West Africa’s standing in the global technology ecosystem.
Stakeholders also anticipate a new era of strategic partnerships as Dr. Ogwus facilitates collaborations with world-leading research institutions, industry giants, and development organizations. These alliances are expected to deepen knowledge transfer, expand talent development pipelines, and stimulate innovation-driven industrial growth. With strengthened international engagement, the region could attract significant investment, influence global standards, and demonstrate Africa’s capability to lead in sustainable, technology-enabled industrialization.
Industry experts describe the appointment as a breakthrough for West Africa’s energy technology landscape. Many say it reinforces the region’s capacity to shape the next frontier of robotics, automation, and digital transformation. Under Dr. Ogwus’ guidance, the continent is expected to witness an upsurge in collaborative research efforts, regional innovation projects, and solutions that set new technical benchmarks across the robotics and automation space.
In his new role, Dr. Ogwus will spearhead initiatives focused on collaboration, high-impact innovation, and professional development within the robotics and autonomous systems community. He will oversee programs aimed at improving energy sector efficiency, nurturing emerging talent, and fostering sustainable industrial solutions through cutting-edge technologies.
A seasoned engineer with decades of experience in project management, engineering innovation, and energy-sector leadership, Dr. Ogwus is widely recognized as a transformative voice in the field. Responding to the announcement, he stated:
“I am honored to serve as Regional Director for Nigeria and West Africa. This role provides a unique opportunity to advance robotics and autonomous technologies in the energy sector, while fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and sustainable growth across the region.”
His appointment further positions Nigeria as an emerging hub for advanced robotics, automation, and energy technology leadership.
Dr. Ogwus joins an influential global board that includes:
Simao Silva & Cristina Marras – Technical Leads, Marine Robotics. Rhea Eccles – Membership Chairperson / Administrative Chairperson. Thalya Robinson – Communication and Outreach Officer. Carissa Smith – Program and Outreach Officer and Emmanuella Ogbu & Dr. Ardian Nengkoda – Regional Directors, Asia Pacific
Together, this international board provides strategic direction for global robotics and autonomous systems initiatives across the energy industry—ensuring that innovation, research, and professional development remain central pillars of the SPE RAS TS mission.
A key component of Dr. Ogwus’ mandate is mentorship and capacity development. Under his leadership, the West African region is expected to see expanded programs aimed at identifying young innovators, upskilling professionals, and empowering engineers with competences essential for the future of work. By integrating global expertise with local ingenuity, Dr. Ogwus aims to cultivate a new generation of engineers and technologists poised to drive West Africa’s industrial renaissance.