The Nation Newspaper

Category: Energy

  • Heirs Energies strengthens Africa’s Energy Voice, says Igiehon

    Heirs Energies strengthens Africa’s Energy Voice, says Igiehon

    Heirs Energies, an integrated energy company, has reiterated its commitment to energy sufficiency for Africa at the U.S.–Africa Energy Forum and the Namibia International Oil & Gas Conference 2025.

    At both forums, Heirs Energies showcased its strategy of responsibly harnessing Africa’s vast natural resources to deliver energy security, drive industrialisation, and create long-term shared prosperity.

    At the USAEF in Houston, Texas, the CEO of Heirs Energies, Osa Igiehon joined global energy leaders and policymakers in high-level sessions examining the future of energy partnerships between the U.S. and Africa.

    Speaking on Heirs Energies’ vision, Igiehon emphasised that: “Africa must define its energy future by leveraging both its abundant hydrocarbons and renewable resources. At Heirs Energies, we are committed to making energy sufficiency a reality for millions, while ensuring that sustainability, innovation, and local capacity building remain at the heart of our growth story.”

    The forum provided a platform to strengthen dialogue with U.S. investors, technology providers, and government agencies on financing and innovation to accelerate Africa’s energy independence.

    Following USAEF, the firm extended its strategic engagement to Namibia, one of Africa’s most exciting frontier markets for oil and gas.

    Read Also: Heirs Energies CEO to speak at Namibia oil and gas conference

    He participated in a high-profile panel session alongside international and regional operators, sharing perspectives on building responsible and inclusive energy industries across Africa.

    On Namibia’s future, Igiehon noted: “This visit marks the beginning of a long-term engagement, with many more interactions to come as we explore opportunities to contribute meaningfully to Namibia’s energy story.”

    He said that Heirs Energies is not just as Nigerian operator, but a pan-African energy company committed to delivering energy solutions that balance commercial viability with societal impact.

    Both engagements reflected Heirs Energies’ anchoring philosophy of Africapitalism, championed by its Founder and Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, who’s philosophy asserts that the private sector must drive Africa’s development by investing in strategic sectors that create both economic prosperity and social wealth

    Heirs Energies Limited is Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company, committed to meeting Africa’s unique energy needs while aligning with global sustainability goals.  Having a strong focus on innovation, environmental responsibility, and community development, Heirs Energies leads in the evolving energy landscape and contribute to a more prosperous Africa.

  • Lokpobiri family, Ekeremor youths back NCDMB boss, demand IYC President’s resignation

    Lokpobiri family, Ekeremor youths back NCDMB boss, demand IYC President’s resignation

    The Lokpobiri Family and Ekeremor Youths Progressive Forum (EYPF) have denied allegations of ethnic bias and poor performance against Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), and others.

    In separate statements, they described the claims as baseless and malicious, aimed at undermining the progress of the NCDMB and sowing seed of discord in the Niger Delta.

    They also issued a seven-day ultimatum to Jonathan Lokpobiri, President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), to resign from his position over what they described as his recent divisive statements against Ogbe and others.

    According to a statement by Allen Lokpobiri, the Family said Jonathan’s baseless allegations have not only tarnished the reputation of a respected leader but also threatened the unity and peace of the Ekeremor community and the broader Niger Delta.

    According to them, his actions demonstrate a clear disregard for the collective interests of the Ijaw people and undermine the progress achieved through inclusive leadership.

    Allen noted that failure to resign would attract further consequences, including potential banishment from Ekeremor.

    “We are appalled by the reckless and unfounded accusations levelled against Engr. Ogbe, a leader who has consistently worked for the progress of the Niger Delta,” Allen said on behalf of the family.

    “Jonathan Lokpobiri’s actions not only misrepresent the collective aspirations of our people but also threaten the unity and peace we have worked hard to maintain in Ekeremor.

    “We demand his immediate resignation, retraction of these false claims and an apology. Failure to do so would attract severe consequences, including banishment from our community.”

    The family further emphasised unwavering support for Ogbe, highlighting his inclusive leadership at the NCDMB.

    “Engr. Ogbe’s tenure has brought significant development to the Niger Delta, with equitable opportunities for all ethnic groups, including the Ijaw.

    “We will not tolerate attempts to smear his reputation with baseless allegations for selfish motives. The Lokpobiri Family stands firmly behind Engr. Ogbe and calls on all well-meaning Nigerians to support his efforts to advance local content development and foster unity across our region.”

    Meanwhile, the EYPF dissociated itself from the Jonathan Lokpobiri, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) and its activities, rejecting their call for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sack Engr. Ogbe.

    In a statement by Comrade John Godman, the group rubbished claims that the ES favoured his Itsekiri kinsmen in capacity-building initiatives while marginalising other ethnic groups, particularly the Ijaw.

    The EYPF asserted that Engr. Ogbe has demonstrated exemplary leadership and inclusivity in advancing the NCDMB’s mandate.

    Read Also: ‘Tinubu’s govt setting new tone for transparency, accountability in governance’

    “Engr. Ogbe has fostered equitable representation and development for all communities, including the Ijaw, through capacity-building programs, training, and job opportunities,” Godman said.

    “We categorically refute the assertion that Engr. Ogbe has avoided critical youth engagement or favoured one ethnic group over others,” the statement added.

    “His track record shows a commitment to transparent and inclusive stakeholder engagement, with tangible results in human capacity development and economic empowerment across the region.

    “The claim of a ten-month communication barrier with the IYC is a misrepresentation, as Engr. Ogbe has maintained open channels for dialogue with youth groups and stakeholders, a fact that can be verified by many community leaders in the Niger Delta.

    “The NCDMB has consistently upheld the principles of fairness, equity, and federal character, ensuring that all communities, including the Ijaw, benefit from its programs.”

    The EYPF highlighted Ogbe’s contributions to local content development, job creation, and sustainable growth, emphasising his commitment to fairness, equity, and federal character.

    The group praised Engr. Ogbe’s transformative leadership, calling on Nigerians, particularly Niger Delta youths, to support his efforts to advance the region’s development.

    “We commend Engr. Ogbe for his transformative leadership at NCDMB, which has strengthened local content policies, created job opportunities, and driven sustainable development in the Niger Delta.

    “His integrity, competence, and dedication to the collective aspirations of all communities in the region are undeniable. We call on all Nigerians, particularly the youth of the Niger Delta, to support Engr. Ogbe’s visionary leadership to ensure continued progress and prosperity for our region.”

  • Lokpobiri pledges continued support for energy investments in Nigeria

    Lokpobiri pledges continued support for energy investments in Nigeria

    The Federal Government has re-emphasise his commitment to keeping Nigeria an attractive destination for energy investments.

    This message was delivered by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri Ph.D., while he was inspecting the NNPC/Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) Joint Venture EGTL facility in Escravos, Delta State.

    In a statement signed by Nneamaka Okafor, SA Media and Communication to the Minister, Lokpobiri noted that “Since we assumed office, things have changed. Our obligation as government is to provide an environment that is globally competitive to allow you expand what you are already doing,” the Minister said. “My duty is to encourage you to expand your investment in the country. We can only grow sustainable production if we have investments. As government, ours is to give you the best incentives that will enable sustainable growth. The time has come for us to develop all available blocks. Where you are not ready to develop, it’s better to farm out to partners rather than wait 20 or 30 years.”

    The Minister stressed that the government’s objective remains to increase production and ensure Nigeria remains attractive for capital expenditure distribution in the global oil and gas market.

    Read Also: Lokpobiri inspects NNPC/Chevron Nigeria JV facility in Escravos

    The Minister commended the NNPC/CNL JV for its operational excellence and urged other operators to consider farming out idle assets to investors with access to capital, noting that government is reviewing the activation of the “drill or drop” provision in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

    During the visit, Chevron Nigeria Limited’s General Manager, NNPC/Chevron Joint Venture, Mr. Segun Kuteyi, expressed optimism about the company’s future in Nigeria and lauded the Minister’s commitment to collaboration.

    “We have a North Star strategy and are seeing the release of resources from our corporate office, investing significantly in operations so we can bring and monetize the resources we have in place. The future is really bright for Chevron in Nigeria and our partnership with the country,” Mr. Kuteyi said. “We are excited that you are the first Minister to come here – it shows how serious the current administration is. We are proudly the only international company operating around the shore area. Your consistency is exemplary, and we commit to collaborating with you to drive the administration’s agenda.”

    Chevron’s Chairman/MD, Mr. Jim Schwartz, also highlighted the enabling role of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and government support in attracting and sustaining investment.

    “When we think about the future, your support and the PIA in sticking with the path of attracting investment is really good for us. We have a lot of resources we still want to develop here that will enable growth in production. After 60 years, we are proud to remain one of the largest supporters in the country,” Mr. Schwartz said.

    The visit underscores the strong partnership between the Federal Government and Chevron, aimed at unlocking Nigeria’s oil and gas potential, driving sustainable production, and boosting economic growth through collaborative investments.

  • NASENI targets 50% fuel cost reduction with new facility

    NASENI targets 50% fuel cost reduction with new facility

    The Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Khalil Halilu, has revealed that the average Nigerian driver spends over 40% of their daily earnings on fuel, one of the highest fuel-cost burdens globally.

    Halilu, who stated this after the launch of a new Portland Daughter Station in Kubwa, said the initiative aims to cut that cost by half while also reducing harmful emissions and extending engine lifespan.

    The EVC noted that the facility, which houses a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Conversion Centre, Training Centre, and Gas Refill Station, is a practical step towards realising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for a diversified, sustainable, and industrially vibrant economy.

    He emphasised that NASENI’s mission is to turn technology into impact through strategic partnerships, such as its collaboration with Portland Gas Limited, which blends technical expertise, private-sector efficiency, and national commitment.

    According to him, the new daughter station can convert up to 20 vehicles daily to CNG, making it more accessible, affordable, and convenient for Nigerians.

    Read Also: NASENI’s initiatives, catalyst for local content, says Oduwole

     This, he said, follows last year’s commissioning of NASENI’s flagship CNG Conversion, Filling, and Training Centre in Utako, Abuja.

    “Did you know that the average Nigerian driver spends over 40% of their daily earnings on fuel? That’s one of the highest fuel-cost burdens anywhere in the world,” the EVC noted.

    “Now imagine if we could cut that by half, while reducing harmful emissions and extending the life of our engines. That is the reality we are working towards, and this facility is designed to help achieve exactly that.”

    Beyond infrastructure, he said, NASENI is also building human capacity.

    He said, “Over the past year, 30 Nigerian engineers from all geopolitical zones have been trained in CNG conversion, auto maintenance, and clean energy technologies. The agency plans to replicate similar facilities across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with the long-term goal of enabling every vehicle in Nigeria to run on CNG.

    The EVC listed the agency’s core commitments as accessibility, bringing CNG technology closer to the people; competition, breaking monopolies to improve service quality and affordability; and efficiency, reducing bottlenecks and long queues for CNG users.

    He stressed that the benefits of CNG adoption include lower fuel costs, cleaner air, improved engine performance, stronger energy security, and job creation for the youth.

    “Our ambition is not just national, it is continental. We believe Nigeria’s energy transition can set a model for Africa where collaboration, innovation, and shared purpose drive the next chapter of our industrial growth.”

  • Energy centre applauds Komolafe as NUPRC achieves N5.21trn revenue in first half of 2025

    Energy centre applauds Komolafe as NUPRC achieves N5.21trn revenue in first half of 2025

    The Energy Policy Advancement Centre (EPAC) has commended the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for generating N5.21 trillion in the first half of 2025, describing it as a clear demonstration of strategic revenue management in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

    In a statement signed by its Director-General, Dr. Ibrahim Musa, EPAC said the mid-year performance under the leadership of NUPRC Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe, shows what is possible when regulation is matched with foresight, accountability, and determination.

    Figures from the commission’s latest report to the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) revealed that the January–June 2025 earnings represent 42.7 per cent of the record N12.2 trillion revenue achieved in the entire 2024 fiscal year.

    The inflows came from royalties, gas sales, flared gas penalties, and joint venture proceeds.

    EPAC noted that NUPRC’s strong showing was achieved despite the volatility of the global oil market and domestic production challenges, adding that the performance strengthens the country’s fiscal position at a time of significant budgetary demands.

    “NUPRC has shown that with deliberate strategies and a results-oriented approach, Nigeria can unlock more value from its upstream petroleum sector. This is not just about impressive figures—it is about building the confidence that our institutions can deliver on ambitious national targets,” he said.

    The report indicated that the commission’s earnings include N1.04 trillion from Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) joint venture and production sharing contract royalty receivables, alongside N315.93 billion from Project Gazelle receipts in January and March 2025.

    Read Also: Energy watchdog hails NUPRC’s N12.25tn revenue performance, lauds Komolafe’s reforms

    It also highlighted that NNPC’s JV royalty receivables from October 2022 to June 2025 amounted to N6.60 trillion, underscoring the cumulative effect of delayed remittances from oil companies.

    Musa particularly applauded the NUPRC’s debt recovery drive, which yielded $459,226 from outstanding obligations—part of a cumulative $1.436 billion owed from crude oil lifting contracts. This recovery, he said, was a product of rigorous reconciliation processes between NNPCL and FAAC, overseen by the Technical Sub-Committee of the Alignment Committee on the Reconciliation of Indebtedness.

    “Debt recovery may not attract headlines, but it is the backbone of fiscal discipline. Every dollar recovered is a step towards stabilising government finances and strengthening our economic resilience. The NUPRC’s persistence in this regard is commendable.”

    For 2025, the Federal Government has tasked the commission with raising N15 trillion to fund national expenditure. EPAC said that while the mid-year figure of N5.21 trillion represents 34.7 per cent of this target, the pace of achievement so far—combined with strategic arrears recovery and potential production boosts—suggests that the goal remains within reach.

    Musa stressed that what sets the current performance apart is not only the quantum of revenue but also the discipline with which it is being pursued. He said the commission’s approach to expanding its revenue base while maintaining transparency should serve as a model for other public institutions.

    “NUPRC has moved beyond passive regulation to active value generation. This is the kind of institutional energy Nigeria needs—one that does not see targets as threats but as opportunities to innovate and excel,” he said.

    EPAC urged oil companies and relevant agencies to align with the commission’s momentum by ensuring timely payments, compliance with regulations, and support for upstream investments that can further raise output and earnings.

    “We are in an era where every revenue stream matters. With the right cooperation, there is no reason the N15 trillion target cannot be met or even surpassed. The NUPRC has set the tone; it is now up to all stakeholders to match that commitment,” he said.

    The Energy Policy Advancement Centre emphasised that the commission’s mid-year achievement should serve as a reminder of the critical role upstream petroleum revenues play in Nigeria’s economic stability, and why sustained reforms in the sector must remain a national priority.

  • Africa minerals strategy group hosts 2nd high-level roundtable

    Africa minerals strategy group hosts 2nd high-level roundtable

    In a bid to forge a common continental voice on minerals development, Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG) will host its second High-Level Roundtable Event on Critical Minerals Development in Africa on September 22, 2025, in Manhattan, New York. 

    The talk shop, with the theme, “Forging a common African voice, advancing global partnerships”, will be holding on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly. 

    A statement by the AMSG Secretary-General, Moses Micheal Engadu said the high-level event will convene African Heads of State, ministerial representatives, multilateral institutions, and global private sector executives to address Africa’s pivotal role in the burgeoning critical minerals economy.

    The statement reads: ” the roundtable will be convened by His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Event Chair, alongside the leadership of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group represented by Dr. Oladele Henry Alake, Chairman of the AMSG and Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Federal Republic of Nigeria and His Excellency Moses Micheal Engadu, Secretary-General of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG).

    Read Also: LEAP Africa, others seek bigger market share

    “The upcoming second edition will build on this legacy by deepening the discussions and commitments forged during the first gathering, furthering Africa’s position as a strategic and indispensable partner in the global critical minerals landscape.

    “Africa’s critical minerals are not just a resource; they are the foundation of global sustainable development and a catalyst for our continent’s industrialization,” stated Engadu.

    He further said,  “This high-level roundtable is a crucial step in harmonizing our policies, mobilizing essential capital, and ensuring that our mineral wealth truly benefits African people while fostering transparent and responsible global partnerships.

    “The Second AMSG High-Level Roundtable will include ministerial representatives from AMSG member states, multilateral institutions, and invited private sector executives from global mining, tech, traceability, and logistics firms. 

    The AMSG Roundtable is strategically partnered and supported by Core International.”Core International is proud to once again collaborate with the AMSG to support this vital platform”, added Suleiman Zakari, Managing Partner of Core International. 

    “The AMSG roundtable is a unique opportunity for private sector leaders to do more than just talk about Africa’s mineral potential. It’s a chance to build tangible, high-impact partnerships. The previous editions at AFNIS, FMF, & UNGA demonstrate that this platform delivers real results. 

    The Africa Minerals Strategy Group was established in January 2024 by African Ministers of Mining as an intergovernmental organization and continental specialized agency for critical minerals development in Africa, the AMSG has rapidly become Africa’s principal inter-governmental platform for coordinating critical minerals policy, investment alignment, and global engagement. 

    Its mission is to ensure Africa reclaims agency over its mineral wealth and plays a leading role in the global mineral economy and supporting the energy transition..

  • CNG attracts $980m investment as Portland gas launches another FCT station

    CNG attracts $980m investment as Portland gas launches another FCT station

    The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI), Chief Executive Officer, Michael Oluwagbemi on Wednesday, revealed that the CNG has attracted $980million investment in only 18 months.

    He made this known at the launch of the Portland Gas Ltd/NASENI CNG Daughter station Auto Conversion and Training Centre on the Kubwa Expressway of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    He said, “I am pleased to report to you that just 18 months later, we have attracted over $980 million worth of investments in the CNG sector.”

    He said the industry has grown significantly with BUA, Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) and others spending over N720billion to acquire not only CNG trucks but also 100 water stations.

    He said the feat makes it the fastest-growing sector in the country today, noting it continues to grow in leaps and bounds.

    He said the CNG-powered vehicles have risen from mere 4,000 to about 100,000 vehicles in about 18 months.

    According to him, because of the incentive for transition to CNG use, using CNG allows about a 90 per cent discount.

    He, however, sought the protection of the CNG allocated for automobile use from being diverted to fuel power plants.

    Meanwhile, the House of Representatives, however, said it would enact legislation to stop the diversion of auto CNG to other uses such as power plants.

    Asked whether the lawmakers would do anything to stop the diversion, the Speaker, Hon. Tajudeen Abass, who was represented by Hon Alexander Mascut, said, the lawmakers will make laws to protect the CNG for autogas.

    “This is new to transit from something we know to the new one is difficult. However, representatives of the House of Parliament will find a way to come up with legislation that will help to protect gas users,” he said.

    Meanwhile, the Portland Gas Ltd, Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Folajimi Mohammed, described the launched station as a gas hub because it has a combination of everything about gas.

    He said, “This is what we call the Portland Gas/NASENI gas hub. We call it a hub because we have an auto-conversion centre. We have a training centre. We have a refill station as well here. So we have a combination of everything gas.”

    He disclosed that the company has secured approval for the same station to sell Liquefied Petroleum Gas.

    He added, “So we have a four-tonne approval which you can see right behind us for cooking gas too. So, it is a full hub for gas.”

    According to him, the cost of conversion has been subsidised by the PCNGI to the extent that it is free of charge for members of the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners and National Union of Road Transport Workers, Uba and Bolt.

    Mohammed said in order to extend the CNG to the northern parts of the country, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited is accelerating the work on the Ajaokuta Kaduna Kano (AKK) gas pipeline to also spread it across the nation.

    Read Also: Dangote Refinery’s CNG trucks arrive

     The Nigerian Agency for Gas Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Halilu, said the station was strategically located on the Kubwa expressway since it is central to the North and southern parts of the country.

    He said, “We are launching a station on the highway of Kubwa which you know connects Abuja to the whole of the north and even the Southern part of the country is a strategic move to show that the government is ready to position CNG stations in partnership with private sector like Portland Gas in strategic areas to ease transportation for Nigeria.”

    He said in partnership with the PCNGI, NASENI has planned for the queues around CNG stations to disappear in the next two years.

    According to him, the queues indicate that Nigerians have keyed into the CNG initiative.

  • Kaduna youth must embrace non-oil export, says NEPC boss

    Kaduna youth must embrace non-oil export, says NEPC boss

    …ministry of youth open to partnership – Commissioner

    The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has urged the Kaduna state government to join hands with it in creating jobs for young people through the non-oil export sector, saying the state has the resources and potential to become a leading player.

    Speaking in Kaduna at the Youth Export Development Programme themed “From Passion to Port: Unlocking Youth Export Potential”, NEPC’s Executive Director/CEO, Nonye Ayeni, said the initiative was designed to complement the state’s youth-focused economic programmes.

    Represented by the NEPC State Coordinator, Mr. Kajuru Y. Sadoh, Ayeni said Kaduna’s strategic position as an industrial hub, coupled with its abundant produce such as ginger, maize, tomatoes, soybeans and cotton, placed it in a prime position for export growth.

    “Our goal is to equip youth-led businesses in Kaduna to compete internationally by integrating more young people into the non-oil export ecosystem,” she said. “This will promote job creation, community development and sustainable economic growth, turning job seekers into wealth creators and employers of labour.”

    She added that NEPC remained committed to increasing youth participation in the sector through capacity building, mentorship, advisory and trade facilitation services.

    Read Also: Tension in Kaduna as NDLEA operative allegedly kills youth

    Kaduna State Agricultural Development Agency (KADA) General Manager, Muhammad A. Rili, said the government viewed agriculture not just as a tradition but as a strategic economic driver.

    He noted that KADA was helping transform the sector into a modern, technology-driven, export-oriented enterprise, and that young people should see themselves as partners in innovation.

    “Kaduna’s youth must not just compete in local markets but dominate global value chains,” Rili said. “We need disciplined urgency, moving fast with purpose, fuelled by innovation, guided by critical thinking and anchored in shared values.”

    According to him, KADA works closely with agencies like NEPC to provide training in product quality certification, packaging, compliance with trade requirements, and linking young exporters directly with international buyers.

    Commissioner for Youth Development, Gloria Ibrahim, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Al-Amin Murtala Daboh, said the state had reactivated partnerships with reputable local and international organisations to boost creativity, innovation and self-reliance among its youth.

    She assured that the ministry was open to collaborations with NEPC to expand skills, entrepreneurship and export opportunities for young people.

  • Heirs Energies CEO to speak at Namibia oil and gas conference

    Heirs Energies CEO to speak at Namibia oil and gas conference

    Heirs Energies CEO, Osa Igiehon, will take centre stage at the Namibia Oil & Gas Conference (NOGC) 2025 to share the blueprint for building world-class African energy companies.

    Osa will headline the session – “The Making of an African Independent” – on 14 August, bringing insights from Heirs Energies’ transformation of Nigeria’s OML 17 into one of West Africa’s most successful indigenous-operated assets.

    According to the organisers, the session will open with an exclusive fireside chat between Igiehon and Dr. Clemens von Doderer of the Hanns Seidel Foundation Namibia, followed by a high-impact panel featuring industry heavyweights from Azule Energy, Rhino Resources Namibia, and the Gas Exporting Countries Forum.

    Read Also: HEIRS Energies CEO to advocate Africa’s energy sufficiency at USAEF

    The conversation will address the real challenges: How do African independents compete with global majors? What does it take to build sustainable operations that deliver both profit and purpose? And why is local expertise the secret weapon for long-term success?

    “We’re proving that African companies don’t just participate in the global energy market – we lead it,” said Igiehon. “When you combine African innovation with world-class execution, you create something powerful.”

    Heirs Energies embodies the Africapitalism philosophy of its Group Chairman, Tony O. Elumelu- the belief that African private enterprise is the key to the continent’s transformation. From Nigeria to Namibia, the company said it is rewriting the playbook for what indigenous energy leadership looks like.

    The timing couldn’t be more relevant. As Namibia’s Orange Basin attracts billions in international investment, the question isn’t whether African companies can compete – it’s how fast they can scale.

    Heirs Energies Limited is Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company, committed to meeting Africa’s unique energy needs while aligning with global sustainability goals. Having a strong focus on innovation, environmental responsibility, and community development, Heirs Energies leads in the evolving energy landscape and contributes to a more prosperous Africa.

  • NNPC Under Bayo Ojulari: Leading Reforms, Boosting Output, and Attracting Investment

    NNPC Under Bayo Ojulari: Leading Reforms, Boosting Output, and Attracting Investment

    A wave of transformation is sweeping through Nigeria’s oil and gas industry under the leadership of Engr. Bayo Ojulari, the newly appointed Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPC Limited. Since taking the helm in April 2025, Ojulari has overseen sweeping reforms aimed at restoring transparency, boosting oil production, and repositioning the national oil company for global competitiveness.

    Ojulari, a seasoned engineer with over 34 years of experience—most notably with Shell, where he attained the enviable height of Managing Director—brings deep technical and strategic acumen to his role. His tenure marks a decisive shift in the management of Nigeria’s most vital economic resource.

    Reforms Deliver Measurable Results

    Within his first 100 days, Ojulari launched initiatives targeting some of the sector’s most persistent challenges. He improved collaboration with upstream partners and enhanced security measures along pipelines, which played a key role in raising daily crude oil output from 1.2 million barrels to 1.8 million barrels by August 2025.

    He brought transparency to the fore. For the first time in three years, NNPC resumed publishing its monthly financial and operational reports. These efforts have coincided with early successes in reviving domestic refineries in Warri and Port Harcourt, which have contributed to a more stable fuel supply and eased pressure at the pumps.

    “We are committed to instilling a culture of accountability and commercial discipline,” Ojulari stated during a recent stakeholder briefing. “The reforms we’re implementing are already producing real results.”

    Investment Drive Gains Momentum

    A key objective of the new leadership is to make Nigeria’s energy sector more attractive to international capital. NNPC has set targets of securing $30 billion in new investment by 2027 and $60 billion by 2030. Final Investment Decisions (FIDs) are expected later this year for major projects, including:
    – Ntokon Offshore Development (OML 102)
    – OML 29 Production Expansion
    – Gas Projects in OMLs 30/42
    – Brass Methanol & Fertilizer Project

    These investments are expected to create jobs, increase revenue, and help lift oil production to 2 million barrels per day by 2027—and 3 million by 2030. Gas output is also set to climb to 8–10 billion cubic feet per day, supporting industrial growth and domestic power supply.

    Read Also: Ugandan data protection officials visit Nigeria to strengthen regional collaboration

    Internal Reforms Face Resistance

    Ojulari’s bold reform agenda, which includes full implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), has encountered pushback from entrenched interests. Efforts to restructure legacy contracts and tighten financial oversight have prompted misinformation campaigns, including recent false claims of his resignation.

    The Presidency swiftly debunked such reports, and industry groups like HOSTCOM have voiced strong support for Ojulari, noting that “corruption is fighting back” against efforts to instill transparency.

    Despite the resistance, Ojulari remains undeterred. “Real transformation is never easy,” he said. “But we are determined to build a stronger, more accountable NNPC—one that operates in the national interest.”

    A Professional Team with a Clear Vision

    Supporting Ojulari is a restructured executive team with deep expertise:
    – Adedapo Segun, Chief Financial Officer, has introduced global best practices in fiscal management and laid the groundwork for a potential public listing of NNPC.
    – Isiyaku Abdullahi, EVP (Downstream), has turned around key subsidiaries and driven financial transparency.
    – Udobong Ntia, EVP (Upstream), brings decades of international project management experience with ExxonMobil.

    The board now includes respected figures such as Babs Omotowa and Austin Avuru, helping ensure strong corporate governance.

    Together, the team is modernizing NNPC—cutting bureaucratic delays, raising operational standards, and pivoting toward future-focused investments, including natural gas and cleaner energy solutions.

    President Tinubu’ s Masterstroke

    The appointment of Bayo Ojulari by President Tinubu is a masterstroke. This is the mark of a leader with a keen eye for track record, competence, and performance in recruiting persons capable of driving the Renewed Hope Agenda of the government. This is a bold statement that it is no longer business as usual in NNPC.

    Appointing a tested and proven oil expert from outside the NNPC must surely come with massive pushback from entrenched interests who have feasted on the NNPC behemoth for years. It is not an easy call to upturn fiefdoms that have thrived for years in that corporation.

    And as expected, they are fighting back in so many ways, especially by planting false and malicious materials in the public space aimed at impugning the reputation of Ojulari with the hope of instigating an early leadership change.

    It is heart-warming that these plots and conspiracies have failed woefully. The detractors did not reckon with the fact that President Tinubu is a tenacious man with a mind of his own. Given the President’s experience in the public sphere, he understands the lengths entrenched interests can go in trying to destroy the reputation of anyone they feel is an impediment to  their selfish objectives.

    It is encouraging that the presidency has come out to debunk the widespread rumor of Ojulari’s resignation. The upswell of contrived falsehood has since fallen flat, and this experience will certainly act as a major boost for the NNPC GCEO to continue on his path of reforms, restructuring, and repositioning of NNPC into an enterprise that one day can play at the same level as Aramco, Petrobas, etc.

    It is to President Tinubu’s credit that these reforms are allowed to run their full course to the benefit of Nigerians and the coming generations.

    Turning Point for Nigeria’s Energy Sector

    NNPC’s transformation under Ojulari comes at a time when Nigeria’s economic future hinges on getting its energy sector right. With increased oil output, revived refineries, and a clear investment strategy, the company is regaining the confidence of investors and the public alike.

    President Tinubu’s ambitious targets—including ending fuel imports and leveraging gas for industrial growth—are increasingly within reach. While challenges remain, NNPC’s new leadership appears ready and capable of meeting them head-on.

    As Ojulari concluded in a recent address: “We are not just managing a company—we are building a legacy. The reforms we implement today will shape the future of Nigeria’s energy security and economic resilience.”