Interview Victoria Okorie Assistant Editor-in-chief association. This support is evident in our sojourn in this space, even after three years and counting. However, it goes without stating the obvious; that this unhackneyed resource is yet to have its potentials fully harnessed as sponsorship remains the bedrock and gap-filler to the technological attainment of our set goal of disseminating knowledge, expertise and practical field skillsets to our dear members and associates. 1. What is the role of the Assistant Editor of NAPE? As stipulated in the NAPE constitution, the role of the Assistant Editor of NAPE is tied to the following, amongst others: I) Coordinating of annual geological field trips. ii) Active membership and participation on the editorial board both for NAPE publications – NAPE News, bulletin etc. iii) Coordinating of technical short iv) courses and summer schools. Assisting role-playing with the Editorin-Chief. v) C o m m u t i n g t o r o l e s a n d responsibilities as assigned by the president and executive committee. 2. The COVID - 19 pandemic and the social distancing protocol necessitated the introduction of the concept of Virtual Field trips to NAPE's AICE. What were the challenges and benefits of adopting this innovation? The idea of a virtual field was birthed, not only to address the global pandemic at the time, but to leverage evolving technology, especially to assumingly inaccessible terrains and to arrest security concerns. As novel and futuristic as this was, the passion demonstrated by all members of the unveiling team was the needed catalyst. Nevertheless, as with any change, financial constraints continue to have a firm grip on this priceless jewel despite the leadership attention and support enjoyed by the 3. How well has the concept of virtual field trips been received by members of NAPE in particular and the oil and gas community in general? This year would be our third year, running this program and the responses and feedback has been enormous. Last year, it ranked #1 on the list of top achievements by the association, following a survey conducted. However, with the potential of what this can do for association and the world of geology, we think, it could and should be given more attention. 4. Does NAPE possess bespoke or requisite technology to carry out virtual field trips? NAPE is a technical and leading geological association not just in Nigeria but the whole of Africa. Our association embraces evolving technology in almost all facets of its dealings. We believe the association has what it takes to project this glass-ceiling breaking program and we stay hopeful that in no distant time, an uprise of its potential will be harnessed. 5. Are you collaborating or considering collaborating with other professional Associations? We have had and continue to have in house discussions around this and we stay open to such constructive collaborations with other professional bodies both within and outside the continent. 6. What would you describe as the highlights of your tenure as Assistant Editor ? Prior to embarking on this journey, l understudied the technical and socialnetworking needs of the association and being an individual with a growth mindset, l had envisioned this kickoff, amongst others. To make it even better, l was privileged to work with the best of teams. This enabled the recorded successes to date. Now, if l were to pick, l would place the virtual field trip, top on my list. Other achievements l feel very humbly proud of, were the quarterlyorganized technical sessions, summer schools, pre-conference short courses, and of course, the most-celebrated social event; the African Night. I feel very honoured to have been given the opportunity to serve our great Association and as l take a bow… temporary, l would like to thank everyone whose path has crossed mine in the course of serving. Thank you and GOD bless. NAPENEWS AUG/SEPT <strong>2022</strong> 22
Photo Gallery of Technical/Editorial Activities NAPENEWS AUG/SEPT <strong>2022</strong> 23