The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has emphasized that the Nigeria–Morocco Gas Pipeline is a key project for strengthening regional energy integration and expanding cross-border trade.
Ojulari highlighted that completing major gas infrastructure projects, including the Nigeria–Morocco Gas Pipeline and the expansion of the West African Gas Pipeline, will help African countries share energy resources more efficiently and build long-term resilience.
He made the remarks during a fireside discussion at the 2026 International Energy Week (IEW) in London, where he spoke alongside Andy Brown, Deputy Chair of Ørsted and President of the Energy Institute.
According to Ojulari, shared energy infrastructure, policy alignment, coordinated investment frameworks, cross-border technology exchange, and collaboration among National Oil Companies (NOCs) are crucial for securing Africa’s energy future.
He stressed that harmonized gas pricing systems, transit protocols, local content standards, and joint technical regulations would reduce investment hurdles, protect cross-border infrastructure, and ensure fair access to shared energy assets. Lessons from Nigeria’s Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) could serve as a model for these reforms.
Ojulari also called for structured joint investment platforms among African NOCs, noting that collective action could attract more investment and deploy capital more effectively than isolated efforts.
On NNPC Ltd’s plans to raise oil output, expand gas production, and attract investments, Ojulari said that success would require a practical, Africa-focused strategy.
He emphasized that energy development should drive economic growth while contributing to global climate goals, ensuring Africa is not left behind in the energy transition.
“Our pathway is clear: grow production responsibly, make gas the backbone of Africa’s industrialization, strengthen environmental accountability, and align with global decarbonisation objectives while ensuring Africans benefit fully from the energy transition,” he said.
A statement from NNPC Ltd’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, noted that the International Energy Week is a leading global platform where energy leaders, policymakers, investors, and innovators discuss energy security, sustainable development, and investment opportunities.
The 2026 IEW in London featured high-level sessions with executives from Ørsted and the Energy Institute, underscoring the growing global focus on Africa’s energy sector.
