NNPC aims to build energy ecosystem for Africa
via Punch Nigeria9 min read
The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Bayo Ojulari, has stated the company's commitment to evolving beyond oil and gas production. NNPC Ltd. aims to become a platform that connects investment, technology, policy, and talent to drive sustainable energy development in Nigeria and across Africa. Ojulari made these remarks while reflecting on NNPC Ltd.'s participation at the 2026 Nigeria Oil and Gas Energy Week, where the company showcased its strategy for strengthening partnerships and advancing the continent's energy sector. He emphasized that NNPC Limited is now viewed as an "ecosystem builder" rather than merely an energy producer, creating lasting value for Nigeria and Africa. This new direction will shape the company's approach to partnerships and investment across the energy value chain, accelerating Africa鈥檚 energy prosperity. The Federal Government considers the energy sector a critical driver of economic growth, with ongoing reforms designed to attract investment, boost oil and gas production, expand domestic gas utilization, and strengthen Nigeria's position as a leading energy hub in Africa. NNPC Ltd. is implementing many of these initiatives through strategic collaborations.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Taiwo Akinsola, General Manager of Fresh FM Lagos, commended the Ogun State Police Command for rescuing 18 National Youth Service Corps members. The corps members were stranded on June 30 after their vehicle broke down at night in an area known for kidnapping and criminal activities. Akinsola, in a letter to Ogun State Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni, stated that the corps members contacted the police for help. He praised the police for their swift response, securing the scene, and safely evacuating all 18 corps members to Ijebu Ode, where they were lodged in a hotel. Akinsola highlighted that the officers' professionalism, courage, and vigilance prevented a potential tragedy and demonstrated the Nigeria Police Force's commitment to protecting lives and property. He also commended the Divisional Police Officer and the patrol team involved, noting their quick intervention restored public confidence.
A Jay-Z concert at Yankee Stadium in New York was delayed for over four hours on Sunday night after hundreds of fans without tickets attempted to enter the venue. According to a Live Nation representative, these individuals "stormed over peaceful ticket holders" and, in some instances, "breached security." This led to the closure of all stadium gates for an extended period to ensure safety. The concert, originally scheduled for 8:00 pm, saw ticket holders waiting outside despite having valid tickets. They were eventually admitted in small groups, and Jay-Z began his performance around 12:15 am. The American rapper briefly addressed the situation with the more than 40,000 attendees before starting the show. This event was the last of three concerts by the artist, who had not performed a major solo concert since 2017.
American fitness influencer Ashton Hall has identified Nigeria as his favorite African destination following a recent tour of the continent. He remarked that Lagos reminded him of "an African version of Miami." Hall shared these comments during an interview on his Kick account after concluding his multi-country African tour. He praised Nigeria's vibrant culture, hospitality, and cuisine, stating that the country made the strongest impression on him among all the African nations he visited. While he described Nigeria as an incredible place to visit, Hall indicated he would prefer to return occasionally rather than relocate permanently. His visit to Nigeria generated significant social media excitement, with fans, celebrities, and content creators welcoming him. During his stay in Lagos, he met music executive Don Jazzy and collaborated with Nigerian streamers and digital creators, attracting millions of views. Hall's continental tour also included South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Ghana. Throughout the trip, he shared videos showcasing local cuisines, tourist attractions, fitness activities, and cultural experiences, which garnered significant online engagement. Hall gained prominence through his fitness and motivational content on social media, documenting his disciplined lifestyle and workout routines. His trademark videos, featuring structured morning routines and motivational narration, became viral sensations, earning him millions of followers. His popularity inc