By Erewunmi Peace

The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has revealed that over 600 million Africans still live without access to electricity, describing the situation as a major development challenge for the continent.

Ojulari made the disclosure during his remarks at the Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES 2026), where he highlighted the urgent need for Africa to leverage its vast natural resources to address energy poverty.

According to him, Nigeria is well-positioned to play a leading role in transforming Africa’s energy landscape.

“With 37 billion barrels of crude oil and 209 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves, Nigeria and the NNPC Ltd are ready to lead the charge in changing the narrative,” Ojulari stated.

He emphasized that Nigeria’s abundant oil and gas resources, if strategically harnessed, could significantly improve electricity access, drive industrial growth, and boost economic development across the continent.

Energy analysts have consistently noted that Africa faces one of the largest electricity access gaps globally, with millions lacking reliable and affordable power supply. Ojulari’s remarks align with ongoing regional and continental efforts to expand energy infrastructure and increase investment in gas-to-power initiatives.

The NNPC boss reiterated the company’s commitment to driving sustainable energy solutions and supporting policies aimed at closing Africa’s electricity deficit.