By Onuora Aninwobodo
The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has called for stronger collaboration among African nations to achieve sustainable energy security.
Ojulari made the call on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, while addressing industry leaders at the 7th African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation (APPO) National Oil Companies CEOs Forum. He stressed the urgency for Africa to accelerate its energy transition and secure its energy future.
“With our vast resource base and improved governance structures, I am confident the continent can secure its energy destiny. Africa must take ownership of its resources and policies. Our policies should be designed by us,” Ojulari said.
The NNPC boss highlighted the decline of European investment in fossil fuel refineries, most of which are expected to phase out by 2030, saying this makes it imperative for Africa to harness its abundant resources.
Ojulari outlined major NNPC projects, including the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline and the Nigeria–Morocco Gas Pipeline, designed to strengthen connectivity and boost regional integration. “The plan is to extend the pipeline to Côte d’Ivoire as the first phase, and ultimately to Morocco,” he explained.
He also revealed that Nigeria has achieved 100% pipeline availability for the first time in two decades, attributing the milestone to strengthened partnerships with host communities and security agencies.
Citing examples from global giants like Petrobras, Petronas, and Saudi Aramco, Ojulari reaffirmed NNPC Ltd.’s readiness to share knowledge and collaborate with African peers to unlock the continent’s energy potential.
