Africa must take ownership of its energy policies, resources

The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Engr. Bayo Ojulari has called on African nations to take full ownership of their energy policies and natural resources, urging leaders across the continent to chart a path towards energy security that reflects Africa’s unique realities and priorities.

In a statement by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPC Ltd, Andy Odeh, and made available to THE PRIME NEWS on Tuesday, after Ojulari spoke at the 7th African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation National Oil Companies CEOs Forum, he emphasised the urgent need for Africa to accelerate its energy transition and take strategic action to safeguard its energy 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,” Ojulari said.

He highlighted the decline of European investments in fossil fuel refineries, with most set to phase out by 2030, noting that this development makes it imperative for Africa to take decisive action in harnessing its abundant resources for the benefit of its people.

The GCEO outlined strategic infrastructure projects spearheaded by NNPC Ltd., including the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline project, designed to strengthen connectivity across Nigeria’s energy network.

THE PRIME NEWS gathered that he further emphasised progress on the Nigeria–Morocco Gas Pipeline Project, an expansion of the West African Gas Pipeline, which will enhance regional integration and cross-border energy trade.

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