NNPC Africa energy ecosystem vision expands beyond oil as Bayo Ojulari outlines plans to connect investment, technology and talent for energy growth

Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited Group Chief Executive Officer Bayo Ojulari has unveiled plans to transform the company beyond traditional oil and gas production, saying NNPC is building an energy ecosystem designed to connect investment, technology, policy and talent across Nigeria and Africa.

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Ojulari disclosed the vision while reflecting on NNPC Ltd.’s participation at the 2026 Nigeria Oil and Gas Energy Week, where the company presented its strategy for strengthening partnerships and supporting growth within Africa’s evolving energy sector.

The annual conference brought together government officials, regulators, international energy companies, indigenous operators, investors and technology providers to discuss issues including energy security, gas development, investment opportunities and the transition towards cleaner energy solutions.

The NNPC Africa energy ecosystem strategy reflects the company’s changing role since its transition into a commercially focused entity under the Petroleum Industry Act. The company has continued to pursue partnerships, improve operational efficiency and position itself as a major participant in Africa’s energy market.

Speaking about the outcomes of the conference, Ojulari said NNPC’s future direction would not be limited to producing hydrocarbons but would focus on creating wider value across the energy industry.

“Proud of what my team and I delivered at NOG Energy Week 2026, from my keynote address to every conversation in between,” Ojulari said.

“A point I keep returning to: 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.”

The NNPC chief executive said the shift in approach would guide the company’s partnerships and investment decisions across the energy value chain, with the goal of accelerating development and expanding opportunities within the sector.

“That shift in identity is the foundation for everything we’re building towards, from deepening partnerships across the industry to accelerating Africa’s energy prosperity,” he added.

Nigeria’s energy sector has remained a key focus of government economic policy, with reforms aimed at attracting investment, increasing oil and gas production, expanding domestic gas utilisation and strengthening the country’s role as an energy hub on the continent.

NNPC Ltd. has been central to several of these efforts through collaborations with local and international stakeholders, as the company seeks to balance its traditional petroleum responsibilities with broader energy development ambitions.

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Ojulari’s remarks highlight the company’s attempt to redefine its position in the industry by moving from a resource-focused model towards a more integrated approach that includes finance, innovation and human capital development.