Chairman of Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, Dr. Layi Fatona, has been awarded the 2026 Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS) highest honour, the NMGS/Shell Award, at the Society’s just concluded 61st Annual International Conference in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Also honoured at the event is Renaissance’s Vice President for Exploration, Johnbosco Uche who received the 2026 NMGS/Durotoye/COMEG Award.
Speaking on the deserving attributes of the Fatona and Johnbosco, NMGS President, Ms. Rose Ndong, said their contributions to the growth of mining and geosciences had been consistent over the years and had brought about economic development to the Nigerian nation. “Your economic contributions to the profession also singled out for the awards,” she said.
In his acceptance speech, Fatona called for tighter regulation of Nigeria’s mining and energy sectors, warning against the proliferation of unqualified practitioners and the risks of weak enforcement, environmental neglect, and short-term opportunism.
“We are living in extraordinary times with the global energy transition accelerating and critical minerals becoming strategic assets,” Fatona said. “Nigeria must not be a spectator. We must be a strategic player, and that requires competence, discipline and professional integrity.”
He urged the industry to restore what he termed “professional sovereignty,” where trained experts lead practice and institutions enforce standards. “Capital must partner with competence — not replace it,” he added.
Fatona drew parallels between Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and its mining industry, noting that while the oil industry has matured faster, it has also faced challenges including environmental damage, governance issues and dilution of professional authority. He cautioned that the mining sector must avoid repeating those mistakes.
Reacting to the honour done two leaders of Renaissance, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Tony Attah, said the two recipients reflect the commitment of Renaissance to redefining Nigeria’s energy future with ambition, belief, and courage.
He said, “Every day, we benefit from the foresight, wisdom and experience of Dr. Fatona, including his vision and thoughts on how to better manage Nigeria’s abundant natural resources for the nation’s industrialisation.”
