NNPC Advocates Fair, People-Focused Energy Transition for Africa
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has called for an equitable and people-centred approach to Africa’s energy transition, noting that more than 600 million people on the continent still lack access to electricity.
The call was made by the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Bayo Ojulari, during his address at the Nigeria International Energy Summit 2026.He said that despite Africa’s vast energy resources, the continent continues to struggle with issues of accessibility, affordability and sustainability.
Ojulari stressed that Africa’s energy transition must reflect its unique developmental realities rather than mirror models adopted by developed economies. He described Nigeria as Africa’s strategic energy reserve holder, citing its over 37 billion barrels of oil and about 2.9 trillion cubric feet of natural gas, positioning the country as an emerging global energy powerhouse.
According to him, Nigeria is well placed to lead Africa’s energy transformation by harnessing its oil and gas resources to drive industrialisation and economic growth across the continent.
“Energy is no longer just a sector; it is the lifeblood of global peace, security and human development,” Ojulari said, adding that modern energy systems determine whether nations can grow, industries can expand and societies can remain stable in a rapidly changing world.
He noted that oil and gas have historically powered industrial growth, created jobs and helped lift nations, including Nigeria, out of poverty, while acknowledging that global energy systems are evolving due to climate concerns, technological advancements and economic pressures.
Ojulari highlighted key milestones achieved by NNPC Ltd, including the unveiling of its Gas Master Plan and progress on major infrastructure projects such as the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben pipeline, Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano pipeline, expansion of the Escravos-Lagos Pipeline System, and the Regional Pipeline Survey Project. He described these projects as drivers of economic opportunity rather than mere infrastructure assets.
He added that the company is investing in gas processing facilities, digital infrastructure and workforce development to build a competitive energy economy driven by innovation, efficiency, safety and environmental responsibility.
Ojulari also said NNPC’s transformation includes a cultural shift anchored on accountability, performance, excellence and national service. He attributed recent sectoral progress to reforms under President Bola Tinubu's administration, citing fiscal stability, policy liberalisation and improved security as factors enhancing Nigeria’s appeal as an investment destination.
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