Dr. Odafe Ejenavi Bags Global Chartered Institute of Energy Management Fellowship Award
By Genesis ogiri
Abuja, Nigeria – In a historic recognition of his distinguished contributions to Nigeria’s energy and environmental sectors, Dr. Odafe Ejenavi has been formally inducted as a Research Fellow of the Global Chartered Institute of Energy Management (GCIEM), Canada. The induction, held at the prestigious Carton Swiss Hotel, Utako, Abuja, celebrates his pioneering work in petroleum geology, environmental stewardship, and energy sector governance.
Dr. Ejenavi’s academic and research credentials exemplify a multidisciplinary approach to energy and sustainability. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Geology from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, a Master’s degree in Petroleum Geology from the University of Benin, and a Doctorate in Environmental Science from Lancaster University, UK. His doctoral dissertation, “Application of Whole-Cell Biosensor for the Impact of Crude Oil Exploration on the Environment of the Niger Delta”, has been widely recognized as a groundbreaking contribution to understanding the environmental impact of hydrocarbon extraction in Nigeria.
With comprehensive experience across the upstream, midstream, and downstream oil and gas value chain, Dr. Ejenavi began his career in the Exploration Department of NNPC NPDC during his NYSC service and currently serves at the Nigerian Midstream & Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). His work spans regulatory oversight, operational efficiency, and stakeholder engagement, positioning him as a key driver of sectoral modernization and compliance.
A prolific scholar and thought leader, Dr. Ejenavi has authored influential publications on petroleum exploration, energy economics, and environmental governance. He is a member or fellow of several prestigious organizations, including the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE)—an affiliate of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG)—the Nigerian Mining & Geosciences Society (NMGS), and the International Association for Energy Economics (IAEE). His expertise makes him a sought-after contributor to policy discourse and energy strategy at both national and international levels.
Dr. Ejenavi has also engaged global energy stakeholders through his participation as a panelist at the First Nigerian Annual Hydrogen Conference in November 2024, themed “Building a Hydrogen Economy for Nigeria”, hosting delegates from Germany, Italy, USA, Namibia, UK, Kenya, and beyond. His presentations underscored Nigeria’s strategic potential in hydrogen integration, renewable energy adoption, and sustainable energy development.
Beyond technical and regulatory leadership, Dr. Ejenavi has championed social impact initiatives, including founding the Global Elites Co-operative Society, which advances financial inclusion and supports vulnerable communities. His efforts reflect a commitment to leveraging professional influence for broader societal benefit.
During the induction, Prof. Stephen Lazi, Africa President of GCIEM, charged all awardees, including Dr. Ejenavi, to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethical leadership. Prof. Lazi emphasized, “As Pioneer Fellows, you are now custodians of best practices, responsible for influencing policy, fostering transparency, and driving institutional reforms in Nigeria’s energy sector. Your ethical conduct and unwavering commitment to integrity will inspire confidence among stakeholders and reinforce public trust in the governance of our critical energy resources.” He further noted that maintaining these standards is essential not only for personal excellence but for Africa’s sustainable growth, innovation, and global energy competitiveness.
Dr. Ejenavi is also a devoted family man, married to Dr. Mrs. Onome Lisa Ejenavi, a distinguished law professor, and together they are raising children grounded in values of service, discipline, and excellence. His personal life mirrors the same commitment to integrity and societal contribution that has defined his professional journey.
The induction into GCIEM Canada marks a defining milestone in Dr. Ejenavi’s career. It recognizes his strategic vision, scientific innovation, and ethical leadership, reinforcing his role as a transformative force in Nigeria’s energy sector. As Prof. Lazi affirmed, Dr. Ejenavi exemplifies the model of a modern energy leader—combining technical expertise, ethical governance, and societal impact to drive sustainable development across Africa