Nigeria Positions Gas as Catalyst for Africa’s Energy Transformation — NNPC Boss
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging its vast natural gas resources to drive Africa’s energy development and strengthen global energy security, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Engr. Bayo Ojulari, has said.
Ojulari made this known while delivering remarks at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES), held in Abuja.
He noted that Nigeria’s long-term economic prosperity depends largely on its ability to harness its abundant gas reserves, describing natural gas as central to the nation’s energy transition strategy, industrial expansion, and export-driven economic growth.
According to him, gas remains a vital bridge in Nigeria’s journey towards cleaner energy while simultaneously supporting industrial development and strengthening the country’s competitiveness in global energy markets.
Ojulari highlighted what he described as Africa’s energy trilemma, explaining that despite the continent’s rich energy endowment, it continues to struggle with energy accessibility, affordability, and sustainability. He pointed out that more than 600 million Africans still lack access to electricity, underscoring the urgent need for practical and inclusive energy solutions.
He stressed that Africa’s energy transition must reflect its unique socio-economic realities rather than adopting foreign models that may not align with the continent’s development priorities. He advocated for a just and people-focused energy strategy capable of reducing poverty, supporting industrial growth, enhancing agricultural productivity, improving transportation systems, and unlocking opportunities for Africa’s growing youth population.
The NNPC chief further disclosed that Nigeria, with an estimated 37 billion barrels of crude oil reserves and about 209 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, is well positioned to lead Africa’s energy advancement. He added that NNPC Limited remains committed not only to commercial success but also to promoting economic stability and prosperity across the region.
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Ojulari also outlined ongoing efforts by the national oil company to deepen gas utilisation as a key driver of industrialisation and economic expansion. He revealed that NNPC Limited has introduced a new Gas Masterplan and is accelerating major infrastructure projects, including the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) pipeline, the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) pipeline, and the expansion of the Escravos-Lagos Pipeline System (ELPS).
He described these projects as critical infrastructure designed to unlock economic opportunities, stimulate industrial activities, and expand energy access across Nigeria and beyond.
