The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has celebrated OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week for its remarkable 19-year contribution to advancing Africa’s energy landscape. Speaking at the opening ceremony, he commended the OTL team for sustaining the continent’s foremost downstream energy platform through resilience, innovation, and vision.
Lokpobiri noted that maintaining such an impactful event for nearly two decades in Nigeria’s dynamic environment reflects exceptional dedication and leadership. He remarked that the success of OTL is proof that progress in Africa’s energy ecosystem is possible when passion meets persistence. According to him, it takes courage, creativity, and strategic thinking to build a platform that continues to shape industry conversations across Africa.
Transitioning to a broader discussion, the minister highlighted Africa’s untapped potential in the global energy market. He shared data revealing that, by 2024, the continent imported hydrocarbon products worth $120 billion—a figure he described as both striking and unsustainable. He explained that this dependence on imports undermines the continent’s economic growth, drains national reserves, and weakens industrial competitiveness.
Therefore, Lokpobiri urged African nations to collaborate more effectively in building refining capacity and expanding local energy infrastructure. He stressed that the continent must move beyond exporting crude oil only to repurchase refined products at higher costs. By investing in refineries, energy corridors, and innovative technologies, Africa can retain greater value within its economies, boost employment, and strengthen long-term energy security.
He further emphasised that the downstream sector represents a vital growth engine for Africa’s industrial future. Through events like OTL, he said, the energy community gains an invaluable opportunity to connect, share insights, and forge solutions that promote inclusive development. The minister praised OTL for bridging the gap between government policymakers, private investors, and innovators, creating a dynamic forum that continues to influence Africa’s energy agenda.
Lokpobiri reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to leading Africa’s clean and secure energy transition. He explained that the government is working tirelessly to rehabilitate domestic refineries, encourage private-sector participation, and expand the use of natural gas as a transitional energy source. With these efforts, Nigeria aims to reduce its dependence on imports while positioning itself as a regional energy hub.
Moreover, he called on private sector leaders to embrace sustainability and long-term vision. He said partnerships built on innovation and transparency will be essential in driving Africa’s transformation from an energy consumer to an energy producer. By combining resources, expertise, and political will, Africa can achieve energy sovereignty and contribute meaningfully to the global green transition.
Lokpobiri concluded his remarks by celebrating OTL’s legacy as a beacon of consistency and impact. He urged all stakeholders to sustain the momentum and continue inspiring progress across borders. With strong leadership, collaboration, and innovation, he believes Africa can secure its rightful place at the forefront of the world’s energy evolution.
