Our Story

The Association of Drilling Professional in Africa started from the idea of a well-known Expert and Drilling Manager named Dr Charles N Ayoka in 2019, who felt it was desirable to have such a professional society for furthering both social and technical interaction among professionals. He shared the idea with other of his colleagues: Engr Bade Olotu, Engr Hope Okwa, Engr Chris Okoli, Engr Yusuf Audu and others who all encouraged the set up.

The idea was developed when preparing to present at a workshop meeting titled “Wells Project Management for independent & local operating Companies in Nigeria” Organized by Alpharetta Oil and Gas Services Worldwide Ltd in Lekki, Lagos Nigeria. While highlighting the theme focused on challenges and opportunities; the vision was shared and widely accepted by various industry experts present especially the COO, Ilesanmi and host of the workshop, Engr. Bade Olotu who remains till this day on the Board of Directors.

With the words ‘Gentlemen and ladies we now have work to ensure we form a stronger network’, Mr. Bade Olotu closed the Wells Project Management Workshop on 31st July 2019 at Lekki Hall in Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel. All present at the conference in Lagos were excited on the vision what the Association will ultimately achieve.

ADPAF formation is born from a real desire to give strength and a voice to the drilling industry in West Africa – it would be stronger to forge a community and deal with matters of common interest more effectively, particularly with regards to Health, Safety and Standards.

The contribution of our first female management Team member Engr. Grace Oluchi Ozichi and Jubril Adebayo, has also been significant in championing the birth of the Website including the smooth running of our administration by Ganiyu Adeola.

ADPAF would like to encourage more women to get actively involved. We reflect the now more diverse nature of the drilling sector which involves both genders.

The history of ADPAF cannot be fully written, only updated. Anticipating change; successful advancement and evolving as ADPAF grows to global recognition and future members will judge how well that has been done