Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) 2025 played host to the 4th High-Level Meeting of the OPEC-Africa Energy Dialogue, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss the future of Africa’s energy sector. The meeting, held in Abuja, was chaired by His Excellency Haitham Al Ghais, Secretary General of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), alongside His Excellency Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim, Secretary General of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization (APPO), and Mr. Anibor Kragha, Executive Secretary of the African Refiners and Distributors Association (ARDA).
HE Al Ghais emphasized the critical role of cooperation and dialogue among energy stakeholders, asserting that in an era of evolving global energy dynamics, collaboration is essential for addressing common challenges. He underscored Africa’s immense energy potential, citing its 120 billion barrels of proven oil reserves and 18 trillion standard cubic meters of natural gas as pivotal to meeting future global energy demand. However, he stressed that unlocking this potential would require strategic investments and policy coordination.
“Africa will play a crucial role in our energy future,” Al Ghais stated. “The world will need more of this oil, and attracting necessary investments will be key to harnessing this great potential.”
Delivering a keynote address at the summit, HE Al Ghais reaffirmed OPEC’s commitment to Africa’s energy sector, highlighting the need for pragmatic policies over arbitrary deadlines that could stifle the continent’s development. He cautioned against misguided energy transition policies that overlook Africa’s realities, advocating for a balanced approach that ensures energy security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.
HE Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim, APPO’s Secretary General, also played a crucial role in the discussions, reinforcing Africa’s position as a global energy hub. Under his leadership, APPO has been instrumental in fostering regional collaboration and advocating for policies that support sustainable energy development. His unwavering commitment to advancing Africa’s energy agenda has positioned the continent as a key player in the global energy transition.
The summit’s theme, ‘Bridging Continents: Connecting Investors with Africa’s Energy Potential’, provided a strategic platform for fostering cross-continental investments. HE Al Ghais commended Nigeria’s role in OPEC and expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for hosting the event. He encouraged investors to explore Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, citing the nation’s consistent contributions to OPEC’s success.
With HE Haitham Al Ghais’ visionary leadership at OPEC and HE Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim’s steadfast commitment at APPO, Africa’s energy sector stands poised for a transformative future—one that prioritizes investment, sustainability, and economic prosperity for the continent
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