The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari has called on African nations to deepen cooperation to safeguard the continent’s energy future.
Speaking on Tuesday, September 15, at the African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation (APPO) CEOs Forum, Ojulari emphasised that Africa must “take ownership of its resources and policies,” particularly as global investments in fossil fuels continue to decline, especially from European partners.
He explained that collaboration among African countries would be critical in harnessing the continent’s vast energy resources to ensure long-term security and economic stability. “Africa has what it takes to achieve energy independence, but this can only happen if we work together,” he said.
Highlighting NNPC’s contributions, Ojulari pointed to key infrastructure projects such as the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline and the Nigeria–Morocco Gas Pipeline, describing them as strategic initiatives that can boost regional energy access and integration.
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He also noted that Nigeria had recorded a significant milestone by achieving 100 per cent pipeline availability for the first time in two decades, a development he credited to renewed focus on operational efficiency and security.
Ojulari stressed that such achievements, if replicated across the continent through partnerships, could unlock Africa’s full energy potential and position it as a global player in energy supply.
The NNPC chief added that while global transitions to renewable energy are accelerating, Africa must balance the shift by maximising the value of its hydrocarbon resources, investing in gas infrastructure, and building strong intra-African collaborations.
Industry stakeholders at the forum echoed his remarks, noting that a united approach to energy development would reduce reliance on external actors and foster sustainable growth across the continent.
