The African Petroleum Regulators Forum (AFRIPERF) has formally selected Nigeria as its permanent headquarters while also naming the Commission Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engineer Gbenga Komolafe, as the Forum’s chairman.
Engineer Komolafe, who had been serving as AFRIPERF’s interim leader prior to the decision, received unanimous endorsement during the Forum’s first executive committee meeting, which was held virtually on December 2, 2025.
During the session, Senior Manager of International Relations at the NUPRC, Eyoanwan Ndiyo-Aiyetan, was chosen as AFRIPERF’s secretary, reinforcing Nigeria’s influence within the organisation.
A statement from the Commission noted that the move underscores Nigeria’s pivotal role in shaping petroleum regulation across the continent and reaffirms its position as Africa’s leading crude oil producer.
Sixteen African nations participated in the virtual meeting, convened to determine the Forum’s leadership structure, headquarters, and official logo.
In his remarks after the endorsement, Engineer Komolafe expressed gratitude to fellow African regulators for their confidence in him, assuring them of inclusive leadership that would prioritise every member nation.
AFRIPERF was established to enhance petroleum sector governance across Africa by promoting deeper cooperation, coordination, and shared regulatory standards among participating countries.
What You Should Know
Nigeria’s selection as the headquarters of AFRIPERF reflects its longstanding leadership in Africa’s petroleum sector, backed by its status as the continent’s largest oil producer.
The appointment of Engineer Gbenga Komolafe as chairman, alongside Eyoanwan Ndiyo-Aiyetan as secretary, further strengthens Nigeria’s influence in shaping regional regulatory frameworks. AFRIPERF’s mandate focuses on building unified standards, encouraging collaboration, and improving governance across member nations.
With 16 countries participating in the inaugural executive meeting, the Forum aims to streamline regulatory cooperation and support shared development goals. Nigeria’s new role positions it at the center of Africa’s evolving energy governance structure.
