The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Bashir Ojulari, has urged African leaders to strengthen collaboration to secure the continent’s energy future. Speaking at the 7th African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation National Oil Companies CEOs Forum, he stressed that Africa must accelerate its energy transition and take decisive steps to harness its abundant resources.
Ojulari noted that European investments in fossil fuel refineries are declining, with most expected to phase out by 2030. He said this trend makes it critical for Africa to take ownership of its resources and policies, adding that the continent has the capacity to secure its energy destiny with better governance and collective action.
The NNPC Limited boss highlighted key infrastructure projects currently being undertaken, including the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano Gas Pipeline, which is aimed at strengthening domestic energy connectivity. He also cited progress on the Nigeria–Morocco Gas Pipeline Project, an expansion of the West African Gas Pipeline, which is set to boost regional integration and cross-border energy trade.
Ojulari further explained that while challenges initially slowed down the pipeline project, cooperation among partners has improved, with Côte d’Ivoire expected to be included in the first phase before extending to Morocco. He also pointed to opportunities created under the Petroleum Industry Act, which he said is fostering a more attractive environment for investment across Africa’s oil and gas value chain.
