President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed Nigeria’s formal admission as a National Member Committee of the World Energy Council (WEC), saying the development will strengthen the country’s participation in global discussions on energy security, equity and sustainability.
Tinubu also congratulated the inaugural leadership of WEC Nigeria, including Abdulrazaq Isa, who will serve as chairman, and Bala Wunti, the Chief Executive Officer.
In a statement on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Nigeria’s admission into the global energy body as a significant development for the country’s energy sector.
He said Nigeria’s membership of the century-old organisation, which has a presence in more than 100 countries, would provide the country with an opportunity to play a greater role in shaping global energy policies and conversations.
‘Nigeria has joined the World Energy Council to lead, not just participate – to ensure Africa’s voice shapes global energy decisions,’ Tinubu said.
The President also congratulated members of the inaugural board, drawn from the energy value chain, regulatory institutions, industry associations, finance, academia and the Future Energy Leaders community.
Tinubu said the composition of the board, bringing together industry operators, regulators, finance experts and young energy leaders, would provide the balance and credibility required for the organisation to carry out its mandate.
He described Isa as a ‘distinguished patriot and trailblazing industrialist,’ citing his investments in indigenous refining and industrial energy.
The President also described Wunti as ‘one of Nigeria’s finest energy strategists and reform champions,’ noting his more than three decades of service in the energy sector.
Tinubu pledged the Federal Government’s support for WEC Nigeria as a neutral and technology-agnostic platform for policy dialogue, investment mobilisation and innovation.
He also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to working with the World Energy Council and its global network towards improving access to secure, affordable and sustainable energy.
The President wished Isa, Wunti and other members of the inaugural board success in their assignments.