By Hosea Parah, Abuja
Nigeria is poised to transform Africa’s economic landscape by fully harnessing its extensive natural gas resources, according to Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd. Ojulari made this declaration during his address at the Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) 2026, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Highlighting Nigeria’s potential as an emerging global energy powerhouse, Ojulari emphasized the country’s commitment to utilizing its gas reserves to support industrialization and sustainable development across the continent. “Nigeria’s path to prosperity hinges on how effectively we harness our resource abundance, particularly gas,” he stated. “It serves as our bridge to a cleaner energy future and the backbone of our export-led expansion.”
Ojulari drew attention to Africa’s energy trilemma—access, affordability, and sustainability—pointing out that despite its rich energy resources, over 600 million people in Africa still lack electricity. He urged for an energy transition that is tailored to the continent’s unique realities, insisting that a one-size-fits-all approach would not suffice.
“With more than 600 million Africans still without electricity, we cannot afford a copy-and-paste approach. What is required is a just and equitable energy transition that alleviates poverty, powers industries, boosts agriculture, modernizes transportation, and unlocks the potential of Africa’s youth,” he said.
Highlighting Nigeria’s significant reserves of approximately 37 billion barrels of crude oil and around 209 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, Ojulari asserted that Nigeria is well-positioned to lead the way in reshaping Africa’s energy sector.
He further elaborated on NNPC Ltd’s new Gas Masterplan, aimed at deepening gas utilization for industrialization and economic growth. Key infrastructure projects such as the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) pipeline, the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline, and the expansion of the Escravos-Lagos Pipeline System (ELPS) are currently underway. “These projects represent vital corridors for economic opportunity and national development,” Ojulari noted.
The Nigeria International Energy Summit serves as a pivotal platform for policymakers, industry leaders, and international stakeholders to engage on strategies aimed at enhancing energy security, promoting sustainability, and attracting investments throughout Africa.
As Nigeria steps into its role as a continental leader in energy, the focus remains on creating a sustainable future that benefits all Africans and drives long-term economic growth.