The African Petroleum Regulators Forum (AFRIPERF) has called for collaboration and innovation in the 2025 operational year for it to achieve its stated objectives.
In his New Year message to members over the weekend, the forum’s interim chairman, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe said that this moment in the life of the group serves as an opportunity for reflection, renewal and a reaffirmed commitment to its collective goals in advancing Africa’s petroleum sector.
AFRIPERF is a collaborative initiative aimed at enhancing governance and regulatory practices in the petroleum sector across Africa. Launched in July 2024 during the Nigeria Oil and Gas Energy Week, AFRIPERF seeks to promote cooperation among regulators from various African oil and gas-producing countries, including Angola, Ghana, Liberia, The Gambia, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, Sierra Leone and Senegal. It was formed about seven months ago.
‘In 2025, we encourage a spirit of enthusiasm, active participation, and collaboration among all members. Our objectives are ambitious, and achieving them necessitates the dedication and engagement of every participant. We urge all members to prioritise attendance at our quarterly hybrid meetings; your presence is crucial for fostering discussions and enhancing our decision-making processes, ensuring we remain aligned with our mission’, Komolafe said.
Komolafe, who is also the Chief Executive of Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, emphasised the fundamental nature of inclusivity to AFRIPERF. ‘Together, we can cultivate an environment where every voice is heard and every contribution is valued. Let us unite to leverage our diverse strengths, share knowledge and promote best practices across the continent’, he charged.
According to him, there was an urgent need to enhance training, research and innovation to build resilient regulatory institutions. ‘We aim to promote uniform regulatory practices that attract investment and optimise resource management throughout Africa. Additionally, we advocate for Africa’s priorities in the global energy landscape while integrating renewable energy and emissions reduction into our policies. It is essential that we expand AFRIPERF’s reach and ensure that all members actively participate in shaping the continent’s collective future’.
He urged members that, as they embark on the journey together, they should be confident that their collective efforts will lead to significant advancements in the petroleum sector. ‘Together, we can navigate challenges and seize opportunities that will benefit not only our countries but also the oil and gas sector across the continent and the communities we serve’, he said.
While wishing members a year filled with collaboration, innovation and success, Komolafe asked them to make 2025 a landmark year for AFRIPERF.
