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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, and the Managing Director of Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), Philip Mshelbila, for their appointments as president of the 2026 Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) Ministerial meeting and GECF secretary-general, respectively.
This information was revealed in a statement on Wednesday by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.
This announcement follows their election as secretary-general and president during the 27th Ministerial Meeting of the Forum held in Doha, Qatar.
In his remarks, Tinubu stated that this achievement will further solidify Nigeria's leadership in global gas diplomacy.
He expressed his belief that Dr. Mshelbila and Minister Ekpo will represent Nigeria with excellence and collaborate with other member nations to enhance cooperation, stability, and inclusivity in the global gas market.
“The Nigerian government is proud of Mshelbila’s election as secretary-general and Ekpo’s position as president of the GECF Ministerial meeting. These roles demonstrate the international community’s trust in Nigeria’s leadership and technical proficiency in the global gas sector.
“Natural gas is fundamental to Nigeria’s industrial growth, energy security, and economic transformation as part of our administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Our nation will continue to be a reliable advocate for equitable energy access and a sustainable energy future,” President Tinubu stated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the newly elected officials in the GECF?
The newly elected officials are Ekperikpe Ekpo as the president of the 2026 GECF Ministerial meeting and Philip Mshelbila as the GECF secretary-general.
What significance does this election have for Nigeria?
This election highlights Nigeria's leadership and technical expertise in the global gas sector, reinforcing its role in global gas diplomacy.
What is the focus of Nigeria's energy agenda?
The focus of Nigeria's energy agenda is on natural gas as a cornerstone for industrial growth, energy security, and economic transformation under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
