By Seun Ibiyemi
The Chairman of the African Petroleum Regulators Forum (AFRIPERF) and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan has outlined a vision for Africa’s energy future centered on unity, stronger institutions, and cross-border collaboration.
Eyesan presented her agenda during her maiden Executive Committee Meeting of AFRIPERF, held virtually on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
She emphasized that Africa’s energy challenges, from investment gaps to pressures related to the energy transition, require collective regulatory action rather than isolated national efforts.
“We represent the unified voice of Africa’s petroleum regulatory institutions. We must reaffirm our collective commitment to deepened collaboration, enhanced coordination, and the sustainable development of Africa’s energy sector,” she stated.
While acknowledging the foundational work of her predecessor, Engineer Gbenga Komolafe, and member states, Eyesan called on regulators to transcend institutional and national boundaries.
“Our strength and credibility are anchored in our ability to act collectively, decisively, and with unwavering resolve,” she said.
She challenged member states to move beyond passive participation and take active leadership roles in driving cross-border initiatives, strengthening knowledge exchange, and cultivating strategic partnerships to boost AFRIPERF’s long-term impact.
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Eyesan also highlighted the need for harmonized regulatory frameworks across African markets, noting that fragmentation remains a major barrier to investment and sector growth.
“The future of Africa’s energy sector depends on our ability to align, integrate, and act with purpose,” she concluded.
The meeting underscores AFRIPERF’s renewed focus on collective action, strategic collaboration, and institutional strengthening to position Africa as a resilient and sustainable player in the global energy sector.
