Nigeria Strengthens Position as Africa’s Energy Hub – NNPC GCEO
As Africa’s leading oil and gas producer, Nigeria remains a dominant force in the global energy market, playing a crucial role in shaping the future of gas as a transition fuel.
Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, reaffirmed this commitment during his presentation at the opening ceremony of the Nigerian International Energy Summit in Abuja on Tuesday.
Kyari emphasized that Africa is increasingly being recognized as the next frontier for global energy production, with its vast mineral resources playing a pivotal role in the energy transition.
He stated that despite Nigeria’s current GDP of $1 trillion, the oil and gas sector will continue to be the backbone of the economy, driving growth and investment.
“Our domestic gas infrastructure is expanding rapidly, and the country is making significant strides in ensuring that gas is readily available for industrial, commercial, and household use,” Kyari stated.
He highlighted that gas remains the most viable transition fuel, offering a cleaner, more sustainable alternative for cooking, power generation, and industrial applications.
The NNPC GCEO underscored that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has laid the groundwork for a stable investment climate through strategic fiscal policies, including an executive order on non-associated gas and incentives to attract investors.
He noted that ongoing tax reforms have eliminated bureaucratic bottlenecks, providing a more predictable and attractive business environment.
“Investors are not CSR organizations; they are here for returns.
“What we have done is to provide them with the assurance of a stable fiscal environment, and that is why they are coming into the country,” Kyari said.
On energy security, he stressed that the Petroleum Industry Act mandates NNPC to ensure Nigeria’s energy stability.
This, he said, includes supplying gas for electricity generation, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and other energy sources.
“NNPC is required by law to stabilize the market and bridge any gaps in energy security.
“We remain committed to this mandate and will not be distracted by unnecessary controversies,” he added, referencing recent viral discussions in the industry.
Kyari further reiterated Nigeria’s ambition to lead Africa’s energy interconnection through gas infrastructure projects that will strengthen regional supply and position the country as the continent’s energy hub.
“With a growing middle class and increasing energy demand, Nigeria has the potential to drive economic transformation not just within its borders but across Africa.
“Our focus remains on expanding our influence and ensuring sustainable energy security,” Kyari stated.
