Uche Cecil Izuora
The African Energy Chamber (AEC), has called for sustainable crude oil production by African countries dismissing anti-energy activists from Western countries deliberately attacking the very oil and gas industry that provides tax revenue to build schools, pave roads and fund universities.
According to the Chamber, Unreasonable limits on oil and natural gas activity do not just target companies – they ultimately harm societies, weaken economies and destroy jobs, saying Africa cannot afford to follow that path.
“At the African Energy Chamber (AEC), we have always believed we must remain organized to defend this industry and fight back when necessary.
“The Chamber has personally invested significant effort in this fight because supporting the oil and gas industry is essential to Africa’s development and economic sovereignty.” declared NJ Ayuk (Njock Ayuk Eyong) Executive Chairman of AEC.
“At the AEC, we reject the idea that governments should pick energy winners and losers instead of allowing free‑market principles to work. By rallying continued investment into Africa, we defend the same market foundations that built many of today’s strongest global economies. That is why regulatory clarity, efficient permitting and consistent enforcement are essential to attracting both domestic and foreign capital – work the AEC advances every day.” Ayuk said.
He said the industry has made meaningful progress, trained professionals, developed talent and produced African entrepreneurs who are now acquiring assets across the continent.
Citing instances, he said the leadership of companies such as Seplat, Renaissance Energy, Oando, Etu Energias, First E&P, ND Western and numerous service firms reflects careers built inside major IOCs and global service companies.
“From Angola and Mozambique to Nigeria, South Sudan, Tanzania and Senegal, few industries have created comparable pathways for African leadership. In many cases, this progress required governments to push firmly for African inclusion – something regulators such as the NUPRC, ANPG, Ghana Petroleum Commission and authorities in Namibia, Tanzania, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, The Gambia, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Senegal and South Africa must never forget.” he said.
Ayuk, said this moment calls for our industry to show moral conviction and that no organization seeking partnership, investment or credibility in Africa can ignore inclusion or dismiss legitimate concerns about discrimination, adding “In 2026, we should not still be confronting barriers rooted in the past.”
He affirmed the Chamber’s commitment to engage African officials and industry leaders to seek clear commitments to inclusive hiring and equal opportunity, noting, “Where progress is absent, we will exercise our lawful right to protest.”