Alfred Okoigun Marks 70 Years of Impact in Oil and Gas Industry

Alfred Okoigun, the founder of ARCO Group Plc and a prominent figure in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, is celebrating his 70th birthday. This milestone has sparked a wave of recognition from industry leaders, public figures, and the communities he has influenced over his extensive career, which spans more than four decades. Okoigun’s leadership has significantly shaped the indigenous oil and gas landscape in Nigeria.

Founded in 1980, ARCO Petrochemical Engineering has evolved into a multifaceted group with interests in engineering, marine logistics, asset integrity, and advanced security technologies. Okoigun’s vision has always emphasized the importance of local talent and infrastructure, viewing human capital as essential for the country’s growth.

In 1982, Okoigun played a pivotal role in addressing environmental concerns by organizing the first Gas Reinjection Seminar at the Petroleum Training Institute in Warri. This event was crucial in highlighting the dangers of gas flaring and contributed to the formation of national policies aimed at mitigating its effects. His career has been characterized by innovative efforts to enhance local content and facilitate the transfer of technical knowledge.

Okoigun’s accomplishments include acquiring a majority stake in Sulzer Pumps Nigeria, fully localizing the fleet of ARCO Marine, and launching Nigeria’s first licensed Drone Academy. These initiatives illustrate his forward-thinking approach in preparing Nigerians for evolving challenges in energy and technology sectors.

A strong advocate for human capital development, ARCO has invested in training engineers abroad and established partnerships with global manufacturers. Many beneficiaries of these initiatives now hold significant positions within Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, showcasing Okoigun’s commitment to nurturing local talent.

Beyond his contributions to engineering, Okoigun has worked to elevate Nigerian achievements on the global stage. He has sponsored prestigious awards, including the NEST in London and the National Diaspora Merit Award organized by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) in 2025. His support for youth and sports development is exemplified by his backing of the “Making of Champions” athletics program, which has cultivated talents like Joy Udo-Gabriel.

ARCO’s operational achievements include logging over 10 million man-hours without a lost-time injury at Nigeria LNG and accumulating more than 7,000 NCAA-certified drone flight hours. The company is also on track to expand its marine fleet to 15 vessels by 2026, reflecting Okoigun’s strategic vision for growth.

In professional circles, Okoigun is recognized as a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Petroleum Training Institute. He has consistently advocated for increased indigenous participation and leadership within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector at various industry forums.

As he celebrates this significant milestone, colleagues and admirers view Okoigun’s journey as a testament to how private enterprise can positively impact society. His legacy is not only marked by his business achievements but also by the lives he has touched and the communities he has uplifted throughout his career.