NNPC boss urges Africa to fast-track energy transition amid global shift

Nigeria has called on African nations to close ranks and accelerate efforts toward energy security as the world moves away from fossil fuels.

Speaking at the 7th African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation (APPO) National Oil Companies CEOs Forum on Monday, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd., Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, cautioned that Europe’s declining investment in oil refineries, with most projected to shut down by 2030, poses a critical challenge for the continent.

Ojulari stressed that Africa must take charge of its energy future by harnessing its vast natural resources and driving a sustainable energy transition that secures the region’s economic stability.

“Africa must take ownership of its resources and policies. Our policies should be designed by us,” Ojulari stated. “With our vast resource base and improved governance structures, I am confident the continent can secure its energy destiny.”

Ojulari highlighted key NNPC infrastructure projects, including the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline, which aims to strengthen domestic energy connectivity. He also cited progress on the Nigeria–Morocco Gas Pipeline, an extension of the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP), designed to enhance regional integration and cross-border energy trade.

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“When we started, we faced challenges with alignment, payments, and collaboration, but today the framework is working,” he said. “The plan is to extend the pipeline to Côte d’Ivoire in the first phase, and ultimately to Morocco.”

He also pointed to the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) as a transformative reform, saying it has created an enabling environment that continues to attract investments across the oil and gas value chain.

On security, Ojulari disclosed that Nigeria has achieved 100% pipeline availability for the first time in two decades. He attributed this milestone to strengthened partnerships with host communities and security agencies, which have helped restore confidence in the country’s energy infrastructure.

Drawing comparisons with global energy giants such as Petrobras, Petronas, and Saudi Aramco, Ojulari reiterated NNPC Ltd.’s commitment to collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and collective progress with African counterparts to unlock the continent’s full energy potential.