NNPC charts new course with Africa-focused energy strategy
State oil firm says its future strategy will centre on investment, technology and partnerships as it seeks a bigger role in Africa's energy transition
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited is broadening its ambitions beyond oil and gas production, unveiling plans to position itself as a platform for investment, technology and strategic partnerships aimed at driving energy development across Africa.
Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, outlined the company’s evolving strategy during the 2026 Nigeria Oil and Gas (NOG) Energy Week, where industry leaders gathered to discuss the future of the continent’s energy sector amid ongoing reforms and growing investor interest.
Rather than viewing itself solely as a producer of hydrocarbons, Ojulari said NNPC is working to become what he described as an “ecosystem builder”, bringing together capital, technology, policy, talent and markets to create long-term value for Nigeria and the wider African energy industry.
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The shift reflects the company’s efforts to redefine its role following its transition into a commercially oriented entity under the Petroleum Industry Act, with a greater emphasis on collaboration, investment and innovation across the energy value chain.
“Proud of what my team and I delivered at NOG Energy Week 2026, from my keynote address to every conversation in between,” Ojulari said.
“We no longer view NNPC Limited as merely an energy producer, but as an ecosystem builder, connecting capital, technology, policy, talent and markets to create lasting value for Nigeria and Africa.”
According to him, the new direction will guide the company’s engagement with investors, technology providers and industry stakeholders as it seeks to support Africa’s energy growth while strengthening Nigeria’s position in the sector.
Ojulari said building stronger partnerships would be central to achieving the company’s long-term objectives, adding that collaboration would play a key role in accelerating energy development across the continent.
The annual NOG Energy Week brings together policymakers, regulators, international oil companies, indigenous operators, financiers and technology firms to explore opportunities in oil, gas and emerging energy markets. This year’s conference focused on investment, energy security, gas development and the evolving role of African energy producers.
The Federal Government has identified the energy sector as a key pillar of economic growth, introducing reforms designed to attract investment, expand domestic gas utilisation and increase oil production. As the country’s national oil company, NNPC is expected to play a leading role in implementing those reforms while building partnerships that support the industry’s long-term competitiveness.
