Senator Eteng Williams Hails Landmark Petroleum Regulators Forum Signing

By Ebi COLLINS 

Nigeria has reaffirmed its leadership role in Africa’s oil and gas sector with the signing of the African Petroleum Regulators Forum (AFRIPERF) Charter, a milestone initiative designed to harmonize regulatory practices, foster collaboration, and promote sustainable growth across the continent’s petroleum industry.

The landmark signing took place on Thursday, September 18, 2025, on the sidelines of the 31st Africa Oil Week (AOW) in Accra, Ghana. The event was chaired by the Commission Chief Executive (CCE) of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, and observed by Senator Eteng Williams, Chairman of Nigeria’s Senate Committee on Upstream, who played a pivotal role in lending legislative backing to Nigeria’s strong continental push.

Senator Williams, speaking after the ceremony, praised the establishment of AFRIPERF as a game-changing step for Africa’s energy future. “What we are witnessing today is more than just a signing ceremony. It is the birth of a continental platform that will shape policy, strengthen collaboration, and guarantee a more sustainable and prosperous future for Africa’s oil and gas industry,” he said.

The signing drew participation from 16 African countries, reflecting the breadth of continental commitment to the new initiative. Attendees included regulators from Nigeria, Ghana, Somalia, Gambia, Madagascar, Sudan, Guinea, Togo, Kenya, Mauritania, Benin, Mozambique, Angola, Namibia, South Africa, and Morocco. Out of these, eight nations formally signed the AFRIPERF Charter, while seven others expressed strong support and pledged to complete internal consultations before formally joining.

AFRIPERF is envisioned as a hub for knowledge exchange, joint regulatory strategies, and technical cooperation. By creating a unified platform for petroleum regulators, the forum is expected to bridge gaps in policy, attract investment, and ensure that African states speak with one voice in global energy negotiations.

Nigeria’s leadership at the event underscored its long-standing role as a continental trailblazer in energy matters. Under the stewardship of the NUPRC and with legislative advocacy from the National Assembly, the country has continued to push for frameworks that not only benefit Nigeria but also strengthen Africa’s collective bargaining power on the global stage.

Senator Williams described Nigeria’s involvement as both a duty and an opportunity: “Nigeria has always been at the forefront of shaping Africa’s energy narrative. With AFRIPERF, we are setting a foundation for stronger intra-African cooperation, enhanced investor confidence, and a future where Africa takes charge of its petroleum destiny.”