Nigeria: Boosting Africa’s energy future through collaboration
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, has emphasized the need for African nations to work together to strengthen local content and drive sustainable growth in the energy sector.
Speaking at the 10th Sub-Saharan African International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC 2026) in Lagos, Ogbe stressed that coordinated action among governments, regulators, private investors, and local communities is crucial for Africa’s energy future. “Our efforts cannot be siloed if we are to achieve real progress and consolidate our gains,” he said.
Ogbe highlighted Nigeria’s local content policy, which has evolved from increasing indigenous participation to building capacity and strengthening regulations. He urged African countries to leverage frameworks like the Brazzaville Accord to harmonize regulations and make regional energy projects more competitive.
Chairman of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), Engr. Wole Ogunsanya, also advocated for an Africa-led energy transition that prioritizes access, affordability, and reliability. He noted that over 600 million Africans lack electricity and emphasized the need to responsibly develop existing resources while integrating cleaner energy solutions.
Ogunsanya attributed progress in Nigeria’s energy sector to consistent local content policies but cautioned that sustaining gains requires policy stability, access to financing, and stronger collaboration among stakeholders.
The future of Africa’s energy sector depends on regulatory clarity, competitive fiscal terms, and bankable projects. Stakeholders are urged to shift focus from dialogue to implementation.
