Uche Cecil Izuora
The African Petroleum Regulators Forum (AFRIPERF), is concentrating efforts towards activating elaborate collaboration and innovation in 2025 operational year, to enable the continent meet its set energy aspirations.
Interim Chairman of the Forum, and Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission (NUPRC),Mr Gbenga Komolafe, while emphasizing on the need for mutual collaboration reaffirmed commitment to its collective goals in advancing Africa’s petroleum sector.
AFRIPERF, inaugurated in July 2024, during the Nigeria Oil and Gas Energy Week, is a collaborative initiative aimed at enhancing governance and regulatory practices in the petroleum sector across Africa.
AFRIPERF seeks to promote cooperation among regulators from various African oil and gas-producing countries, including Angola, Ghana, Liberia, the Gambia, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, Sierra Leone and Senegal.
Komolafe, in his New Year message to members, called for a spirit of enthusiasm, active participation and collaboration in 2025.
“Our objectives are ambitious, and achieving them necessitates the dedication and engagement of every participant.
“We urge members to prioritise attendance at our quarterly hybrid meetings.
“Your presence is crucial for fostering discussions and enhancing our decision-making processes, ensuring we remain aligned with our mission,” Komolafe said.
The interim chairman, also emphasised the importance of inclusivity to AFRIPERF.
“Together, we can cultivate an environment where every voice is heard and every contribution is valued.
“Let us unite to leverage our diverse strengths, share knowledge and promote best practices across the continent.”
He underscored the need to enhance training, research and innovation, to build resilient regulatory institutions.
Komolafe reiterated the body’s aim towards promoting uniform regulatory practices that could attract investment and optimise resource management throughout Africa.
“Additionally, we advocate for Africa’s priorities in the global energy landscape while integrating renewable energy and emissions reduction into our policies.
“It is essential that we expand AFRIPERF’s reach and ensure that all members actively participate in shaping the continent’s collective future.”
“Together, we can navigate challenges and seize opportunities that will benefit not only our countries but also the oil and gas sector across the continent and the communities we serve,” he said.