Our Reporter, Abuja
The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has called for deeper collaboration among African nations to achieve sustainable energy security and drive the continent’s energy transition.
Ojulari made the call while addressing industry leaders at the 7th African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation (APPO) National Oil Companies CEOs Forum. He stressed that with Europe set to phase out fossil fuel refineries by 2030, Africa must urgently harness its vast energy resources to secure its future.
“Africa must take ownership of its resources and policies. Our policies should be designed by us. With our vast resource base and improved governance structures, I am confident the continent can secure its energy destiny,” he said.
Highlighting strategic projects under NNPC’s leadership, Ojulari cited the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline project and the Nigeria–Morocco Gas Pipeline, which builds on the existing West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP). He noted that the framework for the Nigeria–Morocco project, despite initial challenges, is now on course, with the first phase targeting Côte d’Ivoire before extending to Morocco.
He also underscored the enabling role of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which has boosted investor confidence and opened up new opportunities across the oil and gas value chain.
On security, Ojulari disclosed that Nigeria has achieved 100 percent pipeline availability for the first time in two decades, thanks to improved partnerships with host communities and security agencies. He described the feat as a major milestone in restoring investor confidence in Nigeria’s energy infrastructure.
The NNPC boss further benchmarked the company’s aspirations with global industry giants such as Petrobras, Petronas, and Saudi Aramco, reaffirming NNPC Ltd.’s readiness to collaborate, share knowledge, and build stronger partnerships with African peers.
Ojulari also urged African leaders and energy stakeholders to act decisively in shaping policies that will guarantee the continent’s energy independence and sustainable growth.
