The African Petroleum Regulators Forum (AFRIPERF), a coalition of oil and gas regulators across the continent, has chosen Nigeria as its permanent headquarters. The forum also named the CEO of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, as its chairman.
The announcement came during the forum’s first executive committee meeting, held virtually on December 2, 2025, according to a statement from NUPRC’s Head of Media and Strategic Communication, Eniola Akinkuotu.
The statement released in Abuja noted that Komolafe had been serving as interim chairman before the formal confirmation.
It also confirmed the appointment of Eyoanwan Ndiyo-Aiyetan as AFRIPERF’s secretary.
This decision reinforces Nigeria’s leading position in petroleum regulation on the continent and its status as Africa’s top crude oil producer. Representatives from 16 African countries joined the meeting, which focused on selecting the leadership team, headquarters, and official logo.
In his opening remarks, Komolafe stressed the need for an effective executive committee that can support investment and help align regulatory practices across Africa.
He said, “We are building the groundwork for a more coordinated and cooperative regulatory landscape across the continent. A committed executive committee will help promote investment, improve regulatory processes, and strengthen Africa’s place in the global energy sector.”
The statement added that out of the 16 attending countries, eight have ratified the treaty, making them full members of the forum with voting rights.
In his acceptance speech, Komolafe thanked the regulators for their trust and pledged to ensure that every member country benefits from the forum’s work.
AFRIPERF seeks to enhance petroleum governance in the region by encouraging collaboration and coordination among regulators.
Its goals include aligning regulatory standards, building regulatory capacity through training, fostering dialogue with industry and international partners, and tackling regional challenges.
The forum also aims to support knowledge sharing, promote cross-border energy infrastructure, provide a unified African voice in global energy discussions, encourage technology exchange, and strengthen regulatory best practices.
It represents members’ interests internationally and uses the shared expertise of African regulators to help secure sustainable energy resources for development.
The organization also works to attract investment into petroleum exploration in Africa, ensure transparent oversight, and promote ethical behavior in the sector.
source: www.thisdaylive.com
African Energy Council