By Mary Izuaka

 

The Association of Energy Correspondents of Nigeria, Abuja (AECAF) has congratulated Abdulrazaq Isa and Bala Wunti on their appointments as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the World Energy Council (WEC) Nigeria.

Earlier in the month, WEC announced the admission of a new Nigerian member committee into its network, appointing Mr Wunti, a former official of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), as the chief executive officer.

Mr Isa, co-founder and chairman of Waltersmith Petroman Oil Limited, was appointed chairman of the board.

In a statement dated 5 August, the council said the addition of Nigeria emphasises the country’s key role in advancing global energy-climate security across Africa.

In a letter of congratulations signed by John Ofikhenua on behalf of AECAF, the association said the appointments reflect the confidence placed in both men’s leadership and expertise to advance Nigeria’s energy aspirations.

“We warmly congratulate Abdulrazaq Isa, OFR, and Bala Wunti on your respective appointments as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the World Energy Council Nigeria,” the letter read.

AECAF also congratulated members of the inaugural Board, noting that their collective experience across the energy industry, regulatory institutions, finance, academia and professional associations “provides a strong foundation for the Council’s work in Nigeria.”

The association described Mr Isa’s contributions to indigenous refining and industrial development as “pioneering,” adding that his leadership 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,” it said.

On Mr Wunti, AECAF said his more than three decades of service in the energy industry, coupled with expertise in strategy, policy formulation, revenue optimisation and sectoral reform, make him “exceptionally suited for this important national responsibility.”

“We are confident that his integrity, experience and strategic leadership will take the Council and Nigeria’s wider energy sector to lofty heights,” the association added.

Nigeria’s return to WEC timely and significant

AECAF described Nigeria’s return to the World Energy Council as “timely and significant,” saying it restores the country’s place within one of the world’s most influential energy networks.

The association said the membership provides an important platform for Nigeria to contribute to global discussions on energy security, affordability, sustainability and equitable transition.

AECAF said the development also offers Nigeria an opportunity to attract investment, deepen international partnerships, promote technological innovation and ensure that the priorities of Nigeria and Africa are adequately represented in global energy decisions.

The group commended President Bola Tinubu for the foresight that ensured Nigeria’s return to the Council.

“We commend and sincerely thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the foresight and leadership that ensured Nigeria’s return to the World Energy Council.

This development further demonstrates the administration’s commitment to repositioning the country as a leading voice in the global energy community and creating an enabling environment for investment and sustainable growth.”

AECAF pledges collaboration

AECAF, established in 2007 with registration number 9456102, comprises energy editors and reporters covering Nigeria’s oil, gas, and broader energy sector in Abuja and the northern region.

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The association said it recognises the critical role of WEC Nigeria as the world focuses on energy transition and navigates emerging geopolitical issues.

“As journalists dedicated to reporting and analysing developments across the energy value chain, we look forward to a productive relationship with the World Energy Council Nigeria,” AECAF said.

“We remain committed to supporting informed public dialogue and promoting greater understanding of the policies, investments and innovations required to secure Nigeria’s energy future.

“Once again, we congratulate Mr Isa, Mr Wunti and the entire inaugural Board. We wish you wisdom, strength and outstanding success as you undertake this historic responsibility in service to Nigeria, Africa and the global energy community,” the association said.