Mr. Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), has called for a tailored approach to energy transition in Africa, emphasizing the need to prioritize energy security and access to clean fuels.
Speaking at a Leadership Dialogue Session during the ongoing CERAWeek Conference in Houston, U.S., Kyari stressed the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by African countries in transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
Kyari highlighted the significance of the Final Investment Decision (FID) on the $25 billion Nigeria Morocco Gas Pipeline (NMGP) Project, slated for December 2024. He emphasized the critical role of gas in Africa’s energy transition, citing its affordability and abundant availability as key factors.
The NNPC CEO acknowledged the global push for cleaner energy fuels but underscored the need to first ensure energy security and access, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where a significant portion of the population lacks access to clean cooking fuels.
Kyari emphasized the importance of gas as a transitional fuel, noting its role in bridging the energy gap and providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional fossil fuels. He highlighted NNPC Ltd.’s efforts to strengthen gas infrastructure and supply networks to meet domestic and international demand.
Regarding the Nigeria Morocco Gas Pipeline Project, Kyari highlighted its potential to enhance energy security and foster regional cooperation, spanning across 13 African countries and extending to Europe.
Kyari also discussed NNPC Ltd.’s role in Nigeria’s resource management and economic development, emphasizing the company’s commitment to transparency and accountability following the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act.
In addressing challenges such as crude oil theft, Kyari outlined NNPC Ltd.’s collaborative efforts with government and security agencies to mitigate risks and restore crude oil production levels.
Despite facing disruptions, Kyari expressed confidence in Nigeria’s ability to rebound, citing improvements in crude oil production and global advocacy efforts to combat oil theft.
CERAWeek Conference, renowned as one of the largest energy conferences globally, provides a platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss emerging trends and strategies shaping the future of the energy sector.
