Designation reinforces Nigeria’s leadership in Africa’s oil governance space as 16 nations endorse new AFRIPERF leadership
Nigeria has been confirmed as the official headquarters of the African Petroleum Regulators Forum (AFRIPERF), following a unanimous decision by member states at the Forum’s inaugural executive committee meeting held virtually on December 2, 2025.
At the same meeting, the Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, was elected chairman of the Forum. Komolafe, who previously served as the interim chairman, secured the endorsement of all participating countries.
The Senior Manager of International Relations at NUPRC, Eyoanwan Ndiyo-Aiyetan, was also chosen as AFRIPERF’s secretary.
In a statement, the Commission described the development as a testament to Nigeria’s growing influence in continental energy regulation and its status as Africa’s largest crude oil producer. Sixteen African nations participated in the meeting, which was convened to select AFRIPERF’s leadership, headquarters, and official logo.
In his acceptance remarks, Komolafe thanked member states for their confidence in his leadership, assuring them of inclusive engagement and strengthened cooperation. He pledged that the Forum would work to ensure every member country benefits equally from shared expertise and policy coordination.
AFRIPERF was established to promote deeper collaboration among regulators across the continent, with a focus on harmonising petroleum governance, improving regulatory efficiency, and advancing regional energy development.
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