There is an urgent need for balancing energy accessibility, affordability, and sustainability in Africa, especially in Nigeria, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPC Limited, Mr Mele Kyari said.
He made this known on Tuesday at the Nigeria Annual International Conference & Exhibition (NAICE) 2023 held at Eko Hotel and Suite, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The NAICE 2023, organised by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Nigeria council, attracted prominent industry leaders, professionals, and stakeholders who gathered to discuss the pressing energy challenges facing the continent.
Kyari expressed his honour to address the esteemed audience at this critical juncture when the National Energy Landscape is undergoing transformation to reflect global realities.
He said that there could be no better time and place than the NAICE conference to discuss strategies for a sustainable energy future.
Drawing attention to Africa’s specific needs, Kyari, who was represented at the event by the Executive Vice President, Upstream, Engr. Adokiye Tombomieye, presented three fundamental keywords: energy accessibility, affordability, and sustainability.
He stressed the importance of providing all citizens with access to reliable and modern energy, regardless of their geographical location or socio-economic status.
Moreover, he underscored the significance of ensuring that energy and its infrastructure are reasonably priced, allowing Africans to obtain it without facing financial burdens.
“Energy sustainability,” he declared, “is the key to preserving our environment and safeguarding resources for future generations.” Kyari expressed the importance of adopting clean energy practices that do not harm the local environment or exhaust natural resources.
Throughout his address, the NNPC Limited GCEO emphasized the trilemma situation Africa faces and the delicate balance required among political will, technological innovation, effective market mechanisms, policy interventions, and capacity building. He called for a collaborative effort involving governments, the private sector, civil society, host communitiegas-centredublic to address these challenges collectively.
Kyari highlighted the significant strides made in the Nigerian energy industry, such as the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and the long-term gas-centered energy transition plan. He also noted NNPC LimiMr’s commitment to renewable energy, as stated in the Nigerian Climate Act, which aims to achieve low emissions and inclusive green growth for sustainable economic development.
Regarding Nigeria’s energy landscape, Mr. Kyari emphasized the pivotal role of natural gas as a transition fuel. With Nigeria boasting approximately 209.5 Trillion Cubic Feet of natural gas reserves and a potential upside of up to 600 TCF, he revealed that NNPC Limited is actively expanding gas development and infrastructure projects to increase energy accessibility.
Kyari concluded his address by urging all industry stakeholders and the SPE Nigeria Council to collaborate in providing affordable, clean, and efficient energy options for the nation. He emphasized the necessity of embracing innovative research, development, and adoption of new and emerging technologies in the energy sector to secure a sustainable energy future for generations to come.
The NAICE 2023 continued with fruitful deliberations on achieving a balanced energy landscape that ensures energy accessibility, affordability, and sustainability. The insights shared by Kyari resonated among the attendees, reinforcing the collective commitment to creating a brighter and greener energy future for Africa.
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