Eur ING Dr. Chinedu Ogwus Appointed Regional Director for Nigeria and West Africa to Lead SPE Robotics and Autonomous Systems
Eur ING Dr. Chinedu Ogwus Appointed Regional Director for Nigeria and West Africa to Lead SPE Robotics and Autonomous Systems
By Genesis Ogiri | Newsway Reporters
Rivers State, Nigeria — November 15, 2025
The Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Robotics and Autonomous Systems Technical Section (RAS TS) has officially announced the appointment of Eur ING Dr. Chinedu Ogwus as Regional Director for Nigeria and West Africa for the 2025–2026 term. The appointment recognizes Dr. Ogwus’ distinguished expertise in engineering, automation, and energy sector innovation, positioning him to advance robotics and autonomous systems across the region.
Dr. Ogwus’ new role will involve leading initiatives that promote collaboration, technological innovation, and professional development within the robotics and automation community. He will oversee programs designed to enhance energy sector efficiency, identify emerging talent, and foster sustainable solutions through advanced technologies.
With decades of experience in engineering, project management, and energy innovation, Dr. Ogwus is regarded as a transformative leader in the region. In his statement following the announcement, he said:
“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 highlights the growing importance of West Africa in global robotics and automation, and positions Nigeria as a hub for cutting-edge energy solutions.
Dr. Ogwus joins a dynamic international board of industry leaders, including:
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 board oversees initiatives that span global energy sectors, ensuring that innovation, research, and professional development are embedded at every level of robotics and autonomous system deployment.
A central pillar of Dr. Ogwus’ mandate is mentorship and capacity-building. Under his stewardship, SPE RAS TS will expand programs aimed at identifying emerging talent, equipping professionals with advanced technical skills, and fostering innovation-driven solutions across West Africa’s energy and industrial sectors.
By bridging global expertise with local talent, Dr. Ogwus seeks to cultivate a generation of engineers and technologists who are prepared to lead West Africa’s industrial and technological renaissance.
Under Eur ING Dr. Chinedu Ogwus’ visionary stewardship, West Africa is expected to emerge as a global benchmark for technological excellence, energy innovation, and industrial transformation. Observers anticipate that his leadership will accelerate the deployment of advanced robotics and autonomous systems across the region, fostering innovation, efficiency, and sustainable energy solutions. It is expected that local expertise will be elevated through the integration of international best practices, positioning West Africa as a critical player in the global energy and industrial technology ecosystem.
Experts and stakeholders also foresee strategic collaborations with industry leaders, research institutions, and development organizations worldwide, which are anticipated to strengthen knowledge transfer, talent development, and innovation-driven industrial growth. Under Dr. Ogwus’ guidance, the region is expected to attract international investment, influence global standards, and showcase Africa’s capacity to lead in sustainable, technology-driven industrialization. These initiatives are set to establish West Africa as a model for how emerging economies can leverage advanced technologies to drive long-term economic and societal transformation.
Industry experts describe the appointment as a milestone for West Africa, reinforcing the region’s role in shaping the future of energy technology. Through Dr. Ogwus’ vision, stakeholders anticipate an increase in collaborative research, regional projects, and innovation-driven solutions that will set new benchmarks in robotics and automation.