By Emmanuella Anokam
The Association of Energy Correspondents, Abuja, FCT (AECAF) has congratulated Mr Abdulrazaq Isa and Mr Bala Wunti on their appointments as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the World Energy Council (WEC) Nigeria, respectively.
The association also congratulated members of the inaugural Governing Board of WEC Nigeria.
The congratulatory message was contained in a statement signed by the Chairman of AECAF, Mr John Ofikhenua, and issued on Thursday in Abuja.
Ofikhenua said the diverse experience of the appointees in the energy industry, regulation, finance, academia and professional associations provided a strong foundation for the council’s operations in Nigeria.
He said Isa’s contributions to indigenous refining and industrial development had strengthened local participation in Nigeria’s energy sector.
“His appointment as Chairman reflects the confidence placed in his leadership, entrepreneurial vision and commitment to advancing the country’s energy aspirations,” he said.
Ofikhenua also described Wunti’s appointment as timely, citing his more than three decades of experience in the energy industry.
He said Wunti’s expertise in strategy, policy formulation, revenue optimisation and sectoral reforms would contribute to the growth of the council.
“We are confident that his integrity, experience and strategic leadership will take the council and Nigeria’s wider energy sector to greater heights,” he said.
The AECAF chairman described Nigeria’s return to the World Energy Council as significant, saying it restored the country’s place within one of the world’s influential energy networks.
According to him, the membership provides Nigeria with a platform to contribute to global discussions on energy security, affordability, sustainability and equitable energy transition.
He said the development would also create opportunities for Nigeria to attract investment, deepen international partnerships and promote technological innovation.
Ofikhenua added that it would enable Nigeria and Africa to advance their priorities in global energy discussions and decisions.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for the leadership that facilitated Nigeria’s return to the World Energy Council.
According to him, the development further demonstrates the administration’s commitment to repositioning Nigeria as a leading voice in the global energy community.
He said it would also help to create an enabling environment for investment and sustainable growth in the energy sector.
Ofikhenua said AECAF, as an association committed to promoting transparency and informed discourse in the energy sector, recognised the strategic role of WEC Nigeria.
He said the council’s role had become more important as the world navigated energy transition and emerging geopolitical challenges.
The AECAF chairman expressed the association’s readiness to build a productive relationship with WEC Nigeria and support informed public dialogue on policies, investments and innovations in the sector.
“AECAF wishes you wisdom, strength and outstanding success as you undertake this historic responsibility of advancing Nigeria’s interests within the African and global energy community,” he said.
NAN reports that AECAF, established in 2007 and registered under No. 9456102, comprises editors and reporters covering Nigeria’s oil, gas and broader energy sector in Abuja and the northern region. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Emmanuel Afonne