Nigeria: NEITI Tasks Oil Companies To Prioritise Host Communities’ Dev’t
The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has urged oil companies operating in Nigeria to prioritise the development of their host communities.
NEITI’s Executive Secretary, Dr Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, made the call at the official presentation of a Policy Brief on three per cent Operating Expenses (OPEX) for Host Communities on Thursday in Abuja.
The policy brief is titled: “Giving host communities their due: Revisiting the three per cent OPEX funding framework for host community development trusts in Nigeria”.
The unveiling, organised by the Spaces for Change, a Civil Society Organisation (CSO), had in attendance stakeholders from the oil industries and representatives of the host communities, among others.
According to a report by News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Orji emphasised the need for greater corporate commitment to community development.
“It is an honour to address you today on a matter of profound importance to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
“And more importantly, to the communities that bear the direct impact of resource extraction—the Host Communities Trust Fund.
“This fund, established under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA 2021), is designed to enhance the welfare of host communities, ensure sustainable development, and promote peaceful coexistence between industry operators and their host environments,” he said.
Orji said the successful implementation of the initiative required a collective effort, involving not only government agencies but also the vital contributions of NEITI and non-state actors, including CSOs, community leaders, and the media.
“The Role of NEITI as the national representative of the global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, plays a crucial role in promoting transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s extractive sector.
“Specifically, in the implementation of the Host Communities Trust Fund, NEITI’s role is multifaceted,” said Orji.
According to him, NEITI is mandated to ensure openness in revenue flows and financial transactions being pivotal in tracking funds allocated to host communities.
He also urged host communities to play their part by taking ownership of projects in their areas and ensuring their proper maintenance.
“The host communities must be willing to take responsibility by owning and maintaining the projects implemented for their benefit,” he emphasised.
Dr Dekor Robinson, Chairman of the House Committee on Host Communities in the House of Representatives, pledged continued engagement to ensure the effective utilisation of funds allocated to host communities.
Represented by Mr Clement Jimbo, a fellow committee member in the House of Representatives, Robinson emphasised that the three per cent allocation was not insignificant.
He stressed the importance of host communities taking full control of the funds to achieve their development goals.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Trump Cancels Oil Deal In Major Blow To Venezuela
US President Donald Trump says he will revoke a license which allowed Venezuela to export some of its oil to the US despite sanctions.
The move is a major blow to the Venezuelan government as the license provided it, through joint ventures between the state-run oil company and US oil giant Chevron, with a crucial income in dollars.
Trump said he was revoking the licence – which gave Chevron permission to operate in Venezuela – because the government of Nicolás Maduro had failed to meet “electoral conditions” and had not transported “violent criminals” deported from the US at a quick enough pace.
Venezuela called the decision “damaging” and said it could increase migration to the US.
Trump made the announcement on Truth Social, writing that he was “hereby reversing the concessions that Crooked Joe Biden gave to Nicolás Maduro, of Venezuela, on the oil transaction agreement, dated November 26, 2022”.
He did not clarify which concessions he was referring to, but the only licence related to Venezuela granted that day was the one issued by the US treasury authorising Chevron to “resume limited natural resource extraction operations in Venezuela”.
The licence allowed Chevron to operate joint ventures with Venezuela’s state-controlled oil company PDVSA, but barred the US company from paying “any taxes or royalties to the Government of Venezuela”.
Chevron’s spokesman Bill Turenne said in a statement on Wednesday that “Chevron conducts its business in Venezuela in compliance with all laws and regulations, including the sanctions framework provided by US government”.
In a recent interview with the Financial Times newspaper, Chevron Chief Executive Mike Wirth argued that if Chevron was forced to pull out of Venezuela, it would allow companies from China and Russia to increase their presence and influence there.
He also warned that Venezuela’s economy could suffer more if Chevron left the country, which could drive further migration to the US.
The Venezuelan opposition, on the other hand, has in the past argued for the licence to be revoked, arguing that it provides the Maduro government with “a financial lifeline”.
The licence was granted in 2022 by the Biden Administration in an attempt to entice the Maduro government to allow free and fair elections.
It remained in place even after Venezuela’s government-aligned electoral council declared Maduro the winner of the presidential election in July 2024 – a result which has been refuted by the opposition and by a number of countries, including the US, which have recognised Maduro’s rival as the legitimate winner instead.
President Trump’s announcement came less than a month after his envoy, Richard Grenell, met with Nicolás Maduro in Caracas.
During his visit, Grenell secured the release of six US citizens who had been held in Venezuela, as well as a deal under which the Maduro government sent planes to the US to fetch deported Venezuelans.
In his Truth Social post, Trump said “the regime has not been transporting the violent criminals that they sent into our Country (the Good Ole’ U.S.A.) back to Venezuela at the rapid pace that they had agreed to”.
He added he was “therefore ordering that the ineffective and unmet Biden ‘Concession Agreement’ be terminated” as of 1 March.
Venezuelan Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez warned that US sanctions had in the past led to an increase of Venezuelans migrating to the US and that this was likely to happen again.
Stopping undocumented migration has been one of Trump’s main priorities since taking office.
The announcement had a swift effect on oil prices, which rose more than 1% on Thursday.
Source: BBC
Italy Plans $3 Billion Aid Package Due To High Energy Prices
Italy will announce on Friday measures to support households and small firms most hit by the high energy costs, in a package worth a total of $3.14 billion (3 billion euros), Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini said on Thursday.
“We will set aside 2 billion euros to support families and an additional 1 billion for small and medium-sized (SMEs) companies,” Salvini said in a radio interview, as quoted by Reuters.
The government’s aid package would be effective for three months, the official added, as Italy expects energy prices to start declining after the end of the winter season.
Salvini also expressed hope that there would be a ceasefire in Ukraine in the next three months, which would help lower energy prices.
High energy costs have been a hot potato for the Italian government in recent years.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has insisted that the larger part of the $3-billion package go to support families struggling with energy bills, officials have told Reuters.
Italy, the EU’s third-largest economy and the country holding the second-biggest natural gas storage space in the bloc, planned to begin refilling its sites as early as February, to avoid price spikes later in the year.
“Due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and possible speculation, there is a risk for 2025 that wholesale gas prices next summer will be higher than next winter, as was the case during the energy crisis of 2022,” Italian Energy Security Minister, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, told Parliament last month.
Europe’s gas prices for the summer have been higher than for the next winter in February. Summer gas prices have traded to a premium over the futures prices for next winter.
This premium has plunged in recent days amid milder weather in northwest Europe, which has slowed inventory drawdowns, while discussions about peace in Ukraine have also depressed commodity prices.
Source: Oilprice.com
Ghana Gas Attains Dual ISO Certification, Demonstrating Commitment To Sustainability And Safety
Ghana’s national gas aggregator, Ghana Gas, has attained ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management System) and ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health and Safety Management System) certifications.
This significant milestone underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable operations, ensuring the highest health and safety standards in the energy sector.
According to the Ag. Chief Executive Officer, Ing. Dr. Robert Kofi Lartey, “These certifications demonstrate our unwavering commitment to responsible business practices, safeguarding employee well-being, and minimizing environmental impact.”
Ghana Gas embarked on its ISO certification journey in November 2019 but faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, the company successfully secured ISO 45001 in April 2022 and expanded its scope to include ISO 14001 in early 2024.
As part of its drive for continuous improvement, Ghana Gas is now preparing for ISO 9001 certification (Quality Management System) under the theme: “A Future of Excellence: Triple ISO Certification – Our Commitment to Quality, Environment, and Safety.”
This achievement reaffirms Ghana Gas’ position as an industry leader committed to best practices, environmental sustainability, and operational excellence.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana Gas embarked on its ISO certification journey in November 2019 but faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, the company successfully secured ISO 45001 in April 2022 and expanded its scope to include ISO 14001 in early 2024.
As part of its drive for continuous improvement, Ghana Gas is now preparing for ISO 9001 certification (Quality Management System) under the theme: “A Future of Excellence: Triple ISO Certification – Our Commitment to Quality, Environment, and Safety.”
This achievement reaffirms Ghana Gas’ position as an industry leader committed to best practices, environmental sustainability, and operational excellence.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com Kenya: President Ruto Launches Kenya-Off Grid Solar Project In Lamu
Kenya’s President William Samoei Ruto has launched the Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project (KOSAP) at Ndau Island in Lamu County.
The initiative aims to provide electricity access to people in remote areas, create employment, and drive economic growth.
President Ruto stated, “We are extending electricity access to the most remote corners of our country to light up homes, power industries, create jobs, and drive inclusive economic growth.”
The project covers 14 counties, including Garissa, Isiolo, Kilifi, Kwale, Lamu, Mandera, Marsabit, Narok, Samburu, Taita Taveta, Tana River, Turkana, Wajir, and West Pokot.
The Sh10 billion initiative is part of a broader effort to expand electricity access through mini-grids and stand-alone solar systems.
Source:https://energynewsafrica.com
The Sh10 billion initiative is part of a broader effort to expand electricity access through mini-grids and stand-alone solar systems.
Source:https://energynewsafrica.com OPEC Chief Tasks Africa To Unlock 120bn Barrels Of Oil Reserves
The Secretary-General of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Mr Haitham Al-Ghais, has tasked Africa to take drastic measures to unlock its proven oil reserves of over 120 billion barrels to improve their economies.
Besides oil, Al-Ghais said that Africa is blessed with around 18 trillion standard cubic metres of natural gas, which is a testament to the continent’s crucial role in the global energy landscape.
“The world will need more of this oil in the future. Therefore, it is critical that the African oil and gas industry attracts the level of investment necessary to unlock this great potential,” Al-Ghais added.
He said that the vast resources at Africa’s disposal should not be disregarded or neglected merely to accommodate the energy transition agenda pushed by western nations.
Al-Ghais stated this in a keynote address titled: ‘Driving Cross-Continental Investments: Scaling Africa’s Energy Frontier’, at the ongoing Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) 2025 in Abuja, Nigeria.
The eighth edition of the energy summit, which opened on Monday and ends on Thursday, has ‘Bridging continents: Connecting investors with Africa’s Energy Potential’ as the theme.
The OPEC scribe expressed appreciation to the leadership and people of Nigeria for their hospitality and thanked the summit organisers for their efforts in organising this year’s edition.
According to him, OPEC’s market research and forecasting points to the importance of Africa.
“Additionally, we know from Nigeria’s countless contributions to OPEC’s successes, how rewarding it is to work in this great nation. We encourage all potential investors to look at Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.”
Al-Ghais highlighted the strong and enduring relationship between OPEC and Africa, noting that half of OPEC’s member countries are from the continent, including Nigeria, the most populous African nation, and Algeria, the largest in geographical size.
Other African OPEC members include Congo, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea and Libya.
He also lauded Africa’s youthful and dynamic population which presents a strong workforce for the oil sector.
“It’s crucial to discuss how we can unlock the potential that this great continent holds, and how to create an investment-enabling environment that attracts the capital necessary to fully realize that potential.
“The investment needs of the oil industry are substantial, with cumulative requirements amounting to 17.4 trillion dollars by 2050.
“This is why stability in the oil market is essential for investors to plan effectively,” he added.
He highlighted OPEC’s views on some important topics relevant to both the global industry and Africa, including future of global oil demand, energy investment and finance, as well as the ever-evolving issue of climate change and energy transitions.
Source:https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: Eni Applauds Ghana’s Decision To Withdraw Unitization Directives, Pledges Increased Investment
Italian energy giant Eni has welcomed the Ghanaian government’s decision to withdraw the Unitisation Directives related to the Sankofa Cenomanian oil field.
The directives, issued in 2020, had been a subject of controversy, with Eni and its partners expressing concerns over the potential impact on their operations.
The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition’s decision to withdraw the directives is seen as a positive move by Eni and its partner Vitol.
Eni, which has been operating in Ghana since 2009, has reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging its portfolio of innovative projects to seize new opportunities in both traditional and transition energy sectors.
“Eni remains committed to leverage its portfolio of innovative projects, seizing new opportunities both in traditional and transition energy sector, while strengthening domestic energy security and sustainability,” the company said in statement issued by Eni on Thursday.
Eni’s operations in Ghana are focused on the Sankofa field, which is located offshore in the Tano Basin.
The field is expected to produce oil and gas until 2040, with Eni serving as the operator.
The company has also expressed interest in exploring new opportunities in the country, including renewable energy projects.
Springfield E&P is yet to respond to the government’s decision.
Source:https://energynewsafrica.com
African Energy Chamber Commits To Accelerated Investment In Ghana’s Energy Sector
Ghana is positioning itself as a major hub for energy investment, with the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition pledging to attract key players from the oil, gas and renewable energy sectors.
On the sidelines of International Energy Week in London, Ghana’s Minister for Energy and Green Transition John Abdulai Jinapor and the African Energy Chamber (AEC) – the voice of Africa’s energy sector – emphasized Ghana’s readiness to welcome investment and create a favorable business environment for foreign and regional firms.
During the meeting, the AEC also pledged to conduct a working visit to Ghana, focusing on identifying investment and collaboration opportunities.
Together, the AEC and the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition aim to drive growth and development in the country’s energy sector, promoting fiscal frameworks that reinforce Ghana’s position as an attractive destination for oil, gas and energy investors.
As part of these efforts, a dedicated “Invest in Ghana” Forum will be held at African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 in Cape Town, where the AEC will coordinate with the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), the National Petroleum Authority, the Petroleum Commission and private sector players to position Ghana as the go-to destination for oil and gas investments from both G20 and non-G20 countries.
With oil reserves of 1.1 billion barrels and gas reserves of 2.1 trillion cubic feet (World Bank),Ghana has committed to increasing production through enhanced investment in exploration and field development programs.
The country has more than 17 oil and gas projects scheduled for development by 2027, and recent and upcoming regulatory reforms are expected to further bolster investment and foreign participation in the sector.
Notably, the country’s Gas Master Plan – a market growth strategy through 2040 – incentivizes capital and technology deployment across the gas value chain, while upcoming fiscal reforms are expected to stimulate spending in the oil market.
These reforms include planned amendments to laws requiring companies to allocate at least 15% of each project to the state as free and carried interest, as well as more flexible oil royalty regimes.
In collaboration, the AEC and the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition seek to ensure Ghana continues to attract the right kind of investment, with additional reforms encouraging operators to expand their portfolios and new players to seize opportunities in the country.
Several major operators are already active in Ghana’s energy market. Energy giant Eni, for example, has a presence across exploration, refining and chemicals sectors.
The company is involved in the Offshore Cape Three Points (OCTP) exploration project and the offshore CTP 4 block. OCTP serves as an integrated project for developing oil and gas fields, featuring the Agyekum Kufuor FPSO.
Independent energy company Tullow Oil is also a key player in Ghana, with production from the Jubilee and TEN fields amounting to 100,000 bpd and 10,100 bpd, respectively.
In partnership with Kosmos Energy, Tullow Oil began production at the Jubilee South East project in 2023, with three new wells brought onstream in Q1 2024.
Other major projects include the Pecan Phase 1A Upstream Project – developed by global energy firm Aker Energy, GNPC, Russian multinational Lukoil and maritime engineering and energy company Bulk Ship & Trade – and the Ntomme Far West Development.
Pecan Phase 1A is currently in the approval stage, with production scheduled for 2025, while Ntomme is in the pre-feasibility stage, with progress made towards drilling the first well. Energy major TotalEnergies is also active, operating several petroleum depots in the country.
In the downstream sector, Ghana is working to develop an integrated petroleum hub – the first of its kind in West Africa. The government finalized agreements in June 2024 to develop the initial phase of the project, supported by funding from the TCP-UIC private sector consortium.
This multi-phase development will include three refineries, five petrochemical plants, storage tanks, jetties, a port and associated LNG and logistics infrastructure.
“These projects affirm that Ghana is open for business. The country has been proactive in establishing regulatory frameworks that support million-dollar investments, and with further reform, Ghana is poised to become a leading energy hub in West Africa.
The AEC will continue to support the country as it pursues this goal and looks forward to a productive working visit ahead,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: End To Springfield E&P-Eni Impasse As Ghana Gov’t Withdraws Unitisation Directives
The Government of the Republic of Ghana, through the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, has withdrawn the directive seeking to unitize the Afina Discovery oil block operated by Springfield E&P, a wholly owned Ghanaian upstream player, and the Sankofa Cenomanian oilfield operated by Italian oil and gas firm Eni and Vitol.
This move likely puts an end to nearly four years of dispute between Springfield E&P and Eni and its partner Vitol.
There were rumors that the ruling government, led by H.E. John Dramani Mahama, which took over from the immediate past administration of Akufo-Addo on January 7, 2025, would withdraw the directive issued by the Nana Akufo-Addo government in 2020 for the oil firms to unitize their blocks. As industry players waited for an official statement to confirm the rumors, the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition issued a statement on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, confirming that the government had withdrawn the unitization directive based on advice from the Attorney General and Minister for Justice and consultations with relevant stakeholders.
The Ministry stated that the decision follows a thorough review of the Arbitral Award referenced SCC Arbitration U2021/114 (ENI & Vitol v. Ghana & GNPC) dated July 8, 2024, and the legal opinion provided by the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.
The Ministry acknowledged the Tribunal’s findings that while the issuance of the directives breached the Petroleum Agreement due to specific circumstances of their implementation, the concept of unitization itself was not deemed inherently unlawful.
According to the Ministry, the withdrawal of the directives provides Ghana with flexibility to determine the most appropriate course of action in the national interest.
The statement clarified that the withdrawal of the directives is without prejudice to the power of the Minister to issue new directives where necessary for the equitable and efficient development of Ghana’s petroleum resources.
The statement emphasized that the government would explore options for coordinated development within and near the WCTP 2 contract area and continue to support Springfield as an indigenous Ghanaian E&P operator to commercialize the Afina discovery, which has proven to have potential to add to Ghana’s reserves of oil and gas.
The statement noted that while the Petroleum Commission continues to evaluate the appraisal report of the Afina IX well, the government believes that the Afina field has potential for future unitization or development on its own.
The government encouraged both Eni and Springfield to keep the door open for negotiations to determine an amicable and commercial solution.
“The government remains open to dialogue with its partners aimed at charting the best way forward in the sustainable exploitation of its natural resource endowments,” the statement concluded.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Nigeria: IBEDC Given 7-Day Ultimatum To Reconsider Sacking Of 3,000 Workers
Nigeria’s Ministry of Labour and Employment has given the management of Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) and its outsourcing firm a 7-day ultimatum to renegotiate the mass sacking of 3,000 workers.
This directive was issued by Oyo State Comptroller, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Mr. Festus Igbinosun, after a meeting with IBEDC management, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the outsourcing firm, and representatives of the sacked staff.
Igbinosun said resolving the issues within the time frame would strengthen the industrial harmony in the state.
According to the chairman of NLC in Oyo State, Comrade Kayode Martins, the sack of the workers did not follow due process.
Martins urged IBEDC and the outsourcing firm to reinstate the sacked workers.
Responding, the representatives of IBEDC at the meeting said the outsourcing firm agreed to renegotiate with the sacked workers within the stipulated timeframe.
It would be recalled that the NLC had barricaded and laid siege at the entrance of the IBEDC, demanding that the company re-instate and pay the minimum wage for the over 3,000 employed staff that was sacked.
Martin bemoaned the attitude of the outsourcing agents who had refused to pay minimum wage for it employees and making deductions that cannot be accounted for.
He apealed to the management of IBEDC to resolve the issues amicably, before escalating into full blown crisis.
Source:https://energynewsafrica.com
Nigeria: Dangote Refinery Makes Second Price Cut In February, Reduces Petrol Price To N825 Per Litre
Dangote Petroleum Refinery, Africa’s largest refinery and Petrochemicals Company, has reduced petrol prices for the second time in February. The price of Premium Spirit, commonly known as petrol, has been cut from N890 per litre to N825 per litre at the gantry (ex-depot). This follows a N60 reduction on February 1.
The ex-depot price has decreased from N950 per litre in January to the current price of N825 per litre, representing a reduction of N125 per litre within 26 days. This recent price reduction will ensure that Nigerians pay between N860 and N865 per litre for petrol at the pump in Lagos.
According to a statement by Dangote Petroleum Refinery, the price adjustment will take effect from Thursday, February 27, and is intended to provide essential relief to Nigerians. The refinery stated that this strategic price adjustment is designed to provide relief to Nigerians during the Ramadan season, while supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic recovery policy.
Dangote Petroleum Refinery has consistently lowered the prices of petrol and other refined petroleum products to benefit Nigerians. In December 2024, the refinery reduced the price of PMS by N70.50, from N970 to N899.50 per litre, as part of its commitment to easing the cost of living and providing relief to Nigerians during the holiday season.
The refinery’s previous reductions have positively impacted the overall cost of living, benefiting various sectors of the economy. They also helped ensure that Nigerians did not experience the typical fuel scarcity and price hikes associated with the yuletide season.
Dangote reiterated that its high-quality products will remain available nationwide, particularly through its key partners—MRS Holdings, AP (Ardova Petroleum), and Heyden—at market-friendly rates. The refinery assured the public of a consistent supply of petroleum products, with sufficient reserves to meet domestic demand and a surplus for export.
The refinery called on marketers to support this initiative, ensuring that Nigerians remain the primary beneficiaries of this effort.
This collective action will contribute to the broader economic recovery plan led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is committed to making Nigeria self-sufficient in refined petroleum products and positioning the country as a leading oil export hub.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: Sheila Addo And Dramani Bukari Named New Deputy CEOs Of NPA
President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Dr. Sheila Addo and Dr. Dramani Bukari as Deputy Chief Executive Officers at the National Petroleum Authority (NPA). They will support the CEO of NPA in implementing the government’s agenda for the petroleum downstream sector.
Dr. Sheila Addo’s Background
Dr. Addo brings extensive experience to the role, having worked at the NPA for several years and held key positions. Prior to her appointment, she was the Director for Policy Coordination at the NPA. As an Energy Policy Strategist, her expertise focuses on energy and environmental policy formulation, implementation, and management.
Key Roles and Achievements
Dr. Addo has undertaken pivotal roles within the NPA, including:
– Director of Projects, Monitoring and Evaluation
– Head of Research and Technical Aide to the CEO
– Head of Planning & Research
– Research Manager
She has been instrumental in shaping and executing critical policies within the Petroleum Downstream industry in Ghana.
Education and Specialization
Dr. Addo holds several academic degrees, including:
– Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Applied Agricultural Economics and Policy
– Master of Philosophy (Mphil) in Agricultural Economics
– Master of Arts (MA) in Energy Law
– Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Agriculture (Agricultural Economics Specialization)
Her specialization is in Resource and Environmental Economics. Dr. Addo is also an author and an adjunct lecturer at the University of Professional Studies Accra, teaching Energy and Environmental Security at the postgraduate level.
Dr. Dramani Bukari’s Background
Dr. Bukari brings over 16 years of experience as an Energy & Climate Change Specialist to his new role. Previously, he served as Director for Partnerships, Entrepreneurship, and Investments at the Ghana Climate Innovation Centre, Ashesi University.
Expertise and Achievements
Dedicated to advancing sustainable energy and climate-responsive solutions, Dr. Bukari leverages technology, innovative business models, transparent market systems, and progressive policy approaches to drive low-carbon development. His expertise focuses on tailoring solutions to local contexts, addressing unique challenges and opportunities in energy transition and climate resilience within developing nations.
Leadership and Publications
A respected thought leader, Dr. Bukari Co-Chairs the Climate and Environment Working Group of the Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs (West Africa) and leads its Research Sub-Committee. He has successfully managed numerous projects at the intersection of energy and climate change and frequently contributes as a panelist at global and local forums. As a published author and reviewer for leading journals, including Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews, Energy for Sustainable Development, and Applied Energy, Dr. Bukari combines technical expertise with a collaborative approach to deliver impactful results.
Education
Dr. Bukari holds a PhD in Sustainable Energy Technologies, MSc in Energy Economics, and BA in Economics, bringing a unique blend of technical and economic expertise to his work
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Nigeria: Public And Private Sector Leaders Unite To Drive Nigeria’s Oil Production Growth
Heirs Energies, Africa’s fastest growing indigenous integrated energy company, hosted its inaugural Petroleum Industry Leadership Dialogue at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja, bringing together public and private sector leaders to accelerate Nigeria’s production growth.
Heirs Holdings’ subsidiary, Heirs Energies, convened the forum, moderated by CEO of Heirs Energies, Osayande Igiehon, and which featured distinguished speakers including the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; Chief Commission Executive, NUPRC, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe; Chairman, OPEC Board of Governors and CEO, First E&P, Adewale Adeyemo-Bero; Executive Vice-President Upstream, NNPC Limited, Udobong Ntia and CEO of Seplat Energy Plc, Roger Brown.
With a new administration and ambitious targets for production critical for Nigeria’s economic growth, the Dialogue provided a timely venue for private and public sectors to continue the successful interaction, which has already seen Nigeria crude production grow by 25%, since May 2023.
Speakers highlighted how a series of Presidential Executive Orders had radically reshaped the operating environment and catalyzed industry growth. Indigenous oil and gas companies were now responsible for more than 60% of Nigeria’s crude output and the successful indigenisation programme was delivering a bold new chapter in Nigeria’s natural resources history.
The Founder and Chairman of Heirs Holdings and Chairman of Heirs Energies Tony Elumelu, in his opening remarks, paid tribute to the catalytic role that current government had played in reinvigorating the oil sector.
Mr Elumelu also set out Heirs Holdings’ vision of transforming Africa’s energy landscape, through indigenous leadership and sustainable development. Heirs Energies, in just four years, had rapidly grown its production from 21,000 to over 50,000 barrels per day of hydrocarbon.
Mr Elumelu also welcomed both public and private sector guests, emphasising the strong spirit of collaboration that underscored the successful indigenisation.
“Production growth, ambitious and sustained, is our shared national mission. I am honoured that Heirs Energies is bringing together distinguished peers from the industry and our partners in government. As an investor not just in resources, but in Nigeria’s power production and distribution sectors, all of us, need to come together to ensure Nigerians get the benefits of our resources. As we build Africa’s largest integrated energy business, innovation and collaboration are central to our execution”.
The dialogue affirmed Nigeria’s commitment to increasing production, while maintaining environmental responsibility and leveraging gas as a transition fuel.
Speaking at the forum, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, applauded Heirs Energies for hosting this inaugural event, “Let me express our gratitude to Heirs Energies for providing this platform for meaningful industry engagement.”
The Minister announced Nigeria’s oil production had reached 1.8 million barrels per day in January 2025 and set an ambitious target of 2.5 million barrels per day for 2025.
He also reaffirmed the administration’s “drill or drop” policy to accelerate production growth.
The Petroleum Industry Leadership Dialogue, which will become an annual event, brought together key stakeholders in the oil and gas industry, including MD of The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited, Osagie Okunbor; Managing Director of Aradel Holdings, Adegbite Falade and industry veteran and founder of Platform Petroleum & Managing Director A.A Holdings, Austin Avuru,among others.
NUPRC Chief Executive, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, empahsised the dialogues significance in advancing the sectors objectives, “I thank Heirs Energies for this beautiful initiative of putting together the Petroleum Industry Leadership Dialogue as a commitment to achieving our national objective in the upstream sector.” He highlighted the surge in active drilling rigs to 38, with projections to reach 50 by March 2025.
OPEC Board of Governors Chairman for Nigeria and CEO, First E&P, Ademola Adeyemi-Bero, commended the forum’s timing, noting “It’s apt. It’s early in the year and it’s about how we grow production. That’s why you see all of us participating.” He shared how indigenous operators have successfully increased production, citing his company’s achievement of 57,000 barrels per day from previously untapped fields.
Heirs Energies CEO, Osa Igiehon, reinforced this perspective, showcasing Heirs Energies’ impact in Nigeria’s onshore sector.
“Our success at Heirs Energies demonstrates what’s possible in Nigeria’s onshore sector, through our Brownfield Excellence Strategy, robust security measures, and genuine community partnership,” he said.
“By tripling our producing wells to over 100, we’ve shown how indigenous operators can efficiently unlock value while ensuring sustainable development of host communities.”
The Petroleum Industry Leadership Dialogue also exemplified Heirs Energies’ commitment to Mr Elumelu’s Africapitalism, the private sector’s transformative role in driving Africa’s economic and social development through strategic, long-term investments hinged on partnership and collaboration.
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. With 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.
Heirs Energies is a key implementer of Heirs Holdings integrated energy strategy, Africa’s largest integrated energy business, whose objective is to ensure Africans benefit directly from their continent’s resources.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
U.S. Secretary Of Energy Chris Wright To Deliver Keynote Address At 10th Powering Africa Summit
U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright, has been confirmed as a speaker and guest of honour at the 10th Powering Africa Summit (PAS), taking place at JW Marriott Washington, D.C. across March 6-7.
This is an important step to provide an answer to the question that all of African energy is now asking: how will the new Administration approach the strategic energy relationship between the U.S. and Africa?
Under the Summit theme, The Future of the US & Africa Energy Partnership, U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright will deliver a keynote address at the 10th annual Powering Africa Summit.
Wright will be joined by representatives from the U.S. Department of State: Ambassador Troy Fitrell, Senior Bureau Official, Bureau of African Affairs; Kimberly Harrington, Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Energy Resources; and Stephen Banks, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Diplomacy, Bureau of Energy Resources. All will share their vision for this future relationship between African countries and the US-based investors that are so vital to realizing their energy ambitions.
“As Secretary of Energy, I am committed to unleashing all forms of affordable, reliable and secure energy here at home and advancing that mission of energy security around the world – and nowhere is that more critical than the continent of Africa. I look forward to joining the Summit to reaffirm the strategic energy partnership between the U.S. and Africa and share my vision for advancing innovation and removing barriers to energy access, both at home and around the world,” Secretary Wright said.
Ministers and governments from 19 African countries will arrive in Washington D.C., where the Africa Welcome Address will be given by H.E. Honourable Adebayo Adelabu, Minister of Power, Nigeria. Together with H.E. Honourable Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Vice President, Liberia; H.E. Honourable Dr. Dele Alake, Minister for Solid Minerals Development, Nigeria; H.E. Honourable Mahmoud Mustafa Esmat, Minister of Electricity & Renewable Energy, Egypt; H.E. Honourable Karim Badawi, Minister of Petroleum & Mineral Resources, Egypt; H.E. Honourable Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, Minister of Minerals & Energy, Botswana; H.E. Honourable Alex Wachira, Principal Secretary, Ministry of Energy & Petroleum, Kenya; and Amina Benkhadra, Director General, Office National des Hydrocarbures et des Mines (ONHYM), Morocco, he will meet distinguished Ministers and leaders from South Africa, Senegal, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Togo, Sierra Leone and more to drive energy development across the continent.
Flagship ministerial boardrooms and regional energy cooperation sessions will discuss and debate derisking projects, South Africa’s energy future, the need for West African regulatory reforms, and the role of hydrogen in North Africa.
New areas of opportunity such as bitcoin mining and data centers will be discussed through an East African lens. The Mission 300 initiative, set to provide electricity access to 300 million people in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030, is also high on the agenda.
The 10th Anniversary Gala Drinks Reception sponsored by Genesis Energy, will celebrate International Women’s Day, ahead of March 8.
Critical to the week’s discussions will be a host of private players including Alliant Insurance Services, GE Vernova, ARM-Harith Infrastructure Investment, Globeleq, Africa50, Nextracker, Schneider Electric, Newmarket Capital and the summit’s general sponsor, Sun Africa, who are looking to a new future for the U.S.-Africa relationship.
Sun Africa CEO, Adam Cortese said: “We are seeing a sea change in how the U.S. participates in foreign infrastructure development and our unique model of development is an excellent illustration of how U.S. energy companies can thrive in emerging markets on a strictly commercial basis.
“Sun Africa remains committed to harnessing Africa’s immense energy resources through innovative structures, state-of-the-art technology and strong alliances while maintaining our long-standing market-based approach to development. At Sun Africa, we believe energy development on the continent truly represents an opportunity for win-win partnerships and look forward to sharing our experience.”
Simon Gosling, MD of EnergyNet added: “This summit has always been about bringing together African countries seeking investment with U.S.-based investors who see the vast potential on the continent. It is more important than ever to establish the crucial energy projects that Africa needs. PAS25 will put the continent center stage and make sure that both sides have a future relationship to be excited about.”
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com