Taking place on March 30 to April 1 in Paramaribo, Suriname, CEW 2026 will convene government leaders, investors and industry executives to position the Caribbean as an emerging global energy hub spanning hydrocarbons, power and energy transition projects. The event comes at a time when cross-Atlantic partnerships are accelerating, with African energy firms increasingly expanding into Caribbean markets in search of downstream opportunities, trading synergies and strategic diversification.

Oando PLC’s participation reflects a broader shift in global energy investment patterns, as indigenous African companies move beyond domestic markets to pursue international growth. In 2025, Oando Trading was selected as the preferred bidder to lease refinery assets owned by Guaracara Refining Company in Trinidad and Tobago, marking the company’s entry into the Caribbean refining sector. The Pointe-à-Pierre refinery – a key regional asset with a processing capacity of approximately 175,000 barrels per day – plays a central role in supplying refined products across Caribbean markets.

The move highlights strategic alignment between West African and Caribbean energy systems. Both regions are mature hydrocarbon producers facing similar challenges: aging refining infrastructure, evolving fuel demand patterns and the need to attract new capital while maximizing existing assets. For Oando PLC, the Trinidad refinery provides an opportunity to expand its trading and downstream portfolio while leveraging operational expertise developed in Nigeria’s complex petroleum market.

Company leadership has framed the investment as a platform for broader Afro-Caribbean collaboration. According to Oando PLC, involvement in the refinery is expected to serve as a catalyst for increased trade, investment and knowledge exchange between the two regions, strengthening energy cooperation across the Atlantic.

The Caribbean’s growing appeal to African firms also reflects shifting global supply dynamics. As Atlantic Basin crude flows become increasingly interconnected, Caribbean refining hubs offer strategic access to export markets in the Americas while enabling diversification beyond traditional African trading routes. At the same time, Caribbean producers are seeking experienced operators capable of revitalizing legacy infrastructure and supporting regional energy security.

Oando PLC’s expansion aligns with a wider trend of Nigerian companies exploring opportunities in the Caribbean energy sector. In recent years, Nigerian engineering and upstream firms have pursued projects aimed at developing hydrocarbon resources in countries such as Grenada, underscoring rising South-South investment cooperation and technical exchange.

Against this backdrop, Tinubu’s participation at CEW 2026 is expected to focus on investment partnerships, refining modernization and the growing role of indigenous energy companies in shaping cross-regional energy development.

Join us in shaping the future of Caribbean energy. To participate in this landmark event, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.