Office of the Special Adviser @Oluverheijen @NGRPresident on Energy (OSAE)
Abuja
Joined October 2024
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EnergyReformsNG retweeted
Africa holds 13% of the world’s natural gas reserves. Yet much of that potential remains underground or leaves the continent. I spoke with The Economist about why resources alone are not enough.
“The objective isn’t just to produce more gas. The objective is to make sure that you have more productive economies across Africa.”
That requires more than geology: enabling policy, competitive investment conditions, infrastructure and bankable demand connecting gas to power, industry, fertiliser, petrochemicals and cleaner cooking.
Nigeria shows both the opportunity and the constraint. Reforms are unlocking new upstream investment. The priority now is connecting growing supply to productive and bankable domestic demand.
Thank you to @TheEconomist for examining both the opportunity and the work ahead.
Full article here: economist.com/middle-east-an…
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU APPROVES LANDMARK DEEP OFFSHORE INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK TO UNLOCK UP TO US$50 BILLION IN NEW INVESTMENT
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved a landmark reform that replaces project-by-project negotiations with a transparent investment framework designed to unlock up to US$50 billion in deep offshore investment and restart Nigeria's large, capital-intensive offshore developments that have remained stalled for decades.
The reform establishes a transparent, rules-based investment framework capable of supporting the next generation of deep offshore developments, beginning with the approximately US$10 billion Bonga South West project, while strengthening Nigeria's competitiveness for globally mobile investment capital.
The decision builds on President Tinubu's engagement with the Chief Executive Officer of Shell plc, Mr Wael Sawan, during which the President directed the development of the next wave of measures required to unlock Nigeria's deep offshore investment pipeline. Rather than pursuing project-specific solutions, the Federal Government transformed that directive into a comprehensive investment framework applicable across multiple categories of qualifying developments.
Given effect through the Deep Offshore Oil and Gas Projects Incentives (Tax Remission) Order, 2026, the framework replaces project-by-project negotiations with transparent eligibility criteria, clear implementation processes and a durable investment architecture that provides greater certainty for investors while safeguarding long-term national value.
The approval also enables NNPC Limited, as the Government's nominated counterparty under the Production Sharing Contracts, to proceed with the necessary amendments to eligible Production Sharing Contracts required to implement the framework.
A defining feature of the reform is its emphasis on Nigerian industrial capability, said Olu Arowolo-Verheijen, the President’s special adviser on oil and gas.
“Projects qualifying under the framework will maximise execution within Nigeria wherever commercially and technically feasible, strengthening domestic engineering, fabrication, marine logistics, technical services and project management. The objective is not only to increase investment and production, but also to create skilled jobs, deepen local supply chains and position Nigeria as Africa's regional hub for deep offshore project execution.”
Acting on the President's directive, a framework that will deliver a durable investment architecture for Nigeria's deep offshore sector has been developed following an extensive inter-agency process, in close collaboration with the presidency, fiscal, legal, commercial and regulatory institutions, alongside operators in the industry,
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu commended the Federal Ministry of Justice, the Federal Ministry of Finance, the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, the Nigeria Revenue Service, NNPC Limited, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, investing partners and other industry stakeholders whose collaboration, technical expertise and commitment helped shape the framework.
President Tinubu said:
“The countries that attract long-term investment are not necessarily those with the greatest natural resources. They are the ones that provide the greatest certainty. This reform reflects our determination to build an investment environment defined by clear rules, strong institutions and enduring partnerships. We are creating the conditions for capital to flow, for Nigerian businesses to grow, for our people to prosper and for our natural resources to deliver lasting national value.”
—Bayo ONANUGA,
Special Adviser to the President
(Information and Strategy)
August 11, 2026
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
Earlier today, I was honoured to speak at the 2nd West African Refined Fuel Market Conference, organized by @NMDPRA_official, West Africa Regulators Forum and @EnergySPG
I discussed the importance of infrastructure, transparent markets, and regional cooperation in advancing West Africa's energy future. As refining capacity grows across the region, our shared challenge is ensuring that products can be financed, stored, transported, and traded efficiently across borders. Building integrated energy markets will require strong institutions, regulatory coordination, and sustained investment.
Read full text here: energyreforms.ng/publication…
#EnergyReforms #WestAfrica #EnergySecurity #OilAndGas
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
History is not made by those who wait for perfect conditions. It is made by those who seize imperfect moments with courage and conviction.
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
Young people aren’t just preparing for the future, they’re building it.
Power Force is creating pathways for young Nigerians to gain practical skills, earn industry-recognized experience, and contribute to transforming the nation’s power sector. Every lesson learned today is a step toward brighter communities tomorrow.
#PowerForce #YouthDevelopment #SkillsForImpact
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
Yesterday, I was deeply honoured to receive the NOG Women in Leadership Award.
While my name appears on the award, this recognition is truly a reflection of the incredible team I have the privilege of working with every day at @EnergyReformsNG
Leadership is never a solo journey, it is built on trust, collaboration, shared vision, and the commitment of people who consistently give their best.
I also extend my sincere appreciation to the organizers of the NOG Conference and Exhibition for this honour. I am both humbled and encouraged by this recognition, and it strengthens my resolve to continue serving with excellence and contributing meaningfully wherever I am called.
#NOG2026 #WomenInLeadership #Leadership #Teamwork #EnergySector #PublicService #Impact #Gratitude
RT @OluVerheijen: At the ongoing 25th @NOGEnergyWeek , I outlined Nigeria's progress in energy sector reform and the country's ambition to…
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
Everything you need to know about Power Force.
Explore answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the initiative, which is creating employment opportunities, expanding metering access, and strengthening Nigeria’s power sector.
For eligibility criteria and application details, visit pmi.com.ng or apply at pmi.naptin.gov.ng.
@nemsa_ng | @NaptinNigeria | @fmydNG | @PMISGDL
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
A New opportunity…
Power Force is creating pathways to jobs while strengthening Nigeria’s power sector
Power Force is creating pathways to jobs while strengthening Nigeria’s power sector.
The initiative will equip 5,000 young Nigerians with practical technical skills to support the accelerated deployment of smart electricity meters across the country, while connecting successful participants with employment opportunities across the electricity value chain.
Watch this video to learn more about the programme and how to apply.
To apply, visit pmi.com.ng or pmi.naptin.gov.ng.
@nemsa_ng | @NaptinNigeria | @fmydNG | @PMISGDL
#RenewedHopeAgenda #PowerForce
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
The nation needs power. The power sector needs you. ⚡🇳🇬
Applications are now open to join Power Force, an initiative to create jobs, expand metering access, and strengthen power sector reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
🔗 Apply now at pmi.naptin.gov.ng
@fmydNG | @NaptinNigeria | @nemsa_ng | @PMISGDL
#RenewedHopeAgenda #PowerForce
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
PRESS STATEMENT
PRESIDENT TINUBU LAUNCHES POWER FORCE TO TRAIN 5,000 YOUNG NIGERIANS, ACCELERATE SMART METER ROLLOUT
…Initiative to create jobs, expand metering access, and strengthen power sector reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has launched Power Force, a new national initiative that will train 5,000 young Nigerians to support the accelerated deployment of smart electricity meters across the country, create employment opportunities, and strengthen ongoing power sector reforms.
The programme, implemented through the Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI), a federation led initiative with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, is a practical intervention designed to close critical skills gaps in meter installation while expanding opportunities for young Nigerians to participate directly in national development.
Power Force forms part of the administration’s broader effort to improve the performance and financial sustainability of the electricity sector. Expanded metering will help reduce estimated billing, improve transparency in customer charges, strengthen revenue collection, and support better service delivery over time.
The initiative also advances President Tinubu’s commitment to job creation and youth empowerment by equipping participants with practical technical skills, recognised certification, and pathways to employment and entrepreneurship within the power value chain.
The first phase of the programme will commence in Abuja in July 2026, with subsequent rollout across the six geopolitical zones.
Participants will undergo intensive technical training delivered by the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN), while certification and compliance standards will be overseen by the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA). Successful trainees will be connected to deployment opportunities with distribution companies, meter providers, and other industry partners
Speaking on the initiative, Chairman Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said, “Power Force is a federation initiative that connects opportunity with impact, creating jobs for young Nigerians while strengthening electricity access in every state.”
The Honourable Minister of Power, Honourable Joseph Tegbe, said “A stronger power sector begins with skilled people. Power Force invests in Nigerian talent to power our nations future”
The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Honourable Ayodele Olawande, said the programme reflects the administration’s commitment to creating practical opportunities for young Nigerians.
“Young Nigerians want opportunity, not handouts. Power Force gives them practical skills, recognised certification, and a direct pathway to meaningful work that supports national development.”
According to the Executive Secretary PMI, Mrs. Olu Arowolo Verheijen, “Metering restores trust. When customers pay only for what they use, revenues improve, investment follows, and service gets better. Power Force helps us scale that progress faster.”
Applications for the first cohort will open on 4 July 2026 and remains open for two weeks.
For eligibility criteria and programme details, visit pmi.com.ng or apply via pmi.naptin.gov.ng
Mrs. Olu Verheijen
Executive Secretary
Presidential Metering Initiative
July 2, 2026
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
Jobs for our young people remain central to our Renewed Hope Agenda.
Through the Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI), which I established to close Nigeria’s metering gap, end estimated billing, protect consumers, and strengthen the electricity market, we are opening a new pathway for 5,000 young Nigerians to be trained as meter installers and technicians under The Power Force.
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
The conversation around Nigeria’s energy future took center stage on Thursday, June 18, 2026, as the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) hosted Energy Day 2026 under the theme: “Energy in Nigeria: From Potential to Reality.”
Bringing together diplomats, policymakers, industry leaders, investors, and energy experts, the event focused on one critical question: How can Nigeria transform its vast energy resources into sustainable growth, reliable power, and economic prosperity?
In his opening remarks, Mr. Taaj Shobayo - Chairman, NBCC Energy Group, highlighted Nigeria’s enormous opportunities across oil and gas, power, and renewable energy. He noted that the nation’s success will depend not on the abundance of its resources, but on its ability to convert potential into investment, energy security, economic growth, and improved quality of life.
Prince Abimbola Olashore, President and Chairman of Council, NBCC, in his welcome address, emphasized that Nigeria’s rich energy mix and ongoing reforms,, including the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), increased investment, and growing interest in gas and renewable energy, are creating fresh momentum for the sector.
Representing Mr. Jonny Baxter, @UKinNigeria British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Ms. Grace Bell, First Secretary, Economic Partnerships at the British Deputy High Commission, said the UK viewed sustainable energy as a major area for bilateral cooperation and commercial growth. Bell said Nigeria's energy sector offered significant opportunities for collaboration in engineering, project development, finance, grid management and renewable energy integration.
Goodwill messages were delivered by Mr. Adegbite Falade, Managing Director/CEO, @aradelholdings and Chairman, Independent Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG); Chief (Engr.) Tony Attah, Managing Director/CEO, @Renaissance_Afr Energy Company Limited (represented by Mr. Emeka Nworah); and Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe, Founder and Vice Chairman, @baywoodgrp .
A key highlight of the event was the presentation by Mrs. @OluVerheijen , Special Adviser to the President on Energy, who shared updates on Nigeria’s energy sector reforms and progress. She noted improvements in reserves, increased domestic refining capacity, growth in local content participation, and rising crude oil production, underscoring the government's commitment to strengthening the sector.
The discussions continued through two engaging panel sessions. The first session, moderated by Mr. MansurMohammed, explored investment, policy, taxation, and the future of oil and gas, while the second panel, moderated by Ms. Anne Rinu, focused on electrification, renewable energy, and sustainable power solutions for Nigeria’s growing economy.
The sessions featured leading voices from Aradel Holdings, Renaissance Africa Energy, EnergyInc Advisors, Deloitte, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Daystar Power, Arnergy Solar, and Pirano Energy.
In a nutshell, the conversations challenged stakeholders to move beyond potential and embrace practical solutions that will power Nigeria’s future.
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE
President Tinubu to Address the Nation on Democracy Day
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will deliver a national address on Friday, June 12, in commemoration of Democracy Day.
The speech is scheduled to air on the network of Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and Radio Nigeria at 7:00 a.m.
All television and radio stations are requested to hook onto the NTA and Radio Nigeria network to carry the broadcast.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
June 11, 2026
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
We received the Schlumberger's team, led by Mr. ND Madeemezia- President, Europe and Africa and Mr. Jean Marc Kloss- Managing Director, West Africa, on a courtesy visit to our office.
Our discussion focused on the tangible impact of the ongoing oil and gas reforms, the opportunities emerging across the sector, and the growing confidence of global industry players in Nigeria’s energy landscape.
It was insightful to hear perspectives from the field on the progress being made and to exchange ideas on how we can continue to drive growth, and strengthen value of the sector’s contribution to national development.
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
In the oil and gas sector, the reforms we instituted have attracted billions of dollars in fresh investment from the international oil companies that had shunned our country. The $5 billion NLNG Train 7 project is nearing completion to boost LNG production capacity, exports, and dividends.
Domestic gas utilisation is expanding. Local refining capacity has improved our energy security. With large-scale domestic and modular refineries operational, Nigeria is reducing its dependence on imported petroleum products and conserving foreign exchange.
For years, the power sector suffered from debt, underinvestment, and uncertainty, which weakened generation capacity and limited growth. Today, we are confronting those challenges directly.
Our administration is clearing legacy obligations, expanding transmission infrastructure, investing in renewable energy, and strengthening the national grid because no modern economy can grow in darkness. When power improves, businesses expand, industries grow, jobs are created, and families prosper.
We are determined to power Nigeria into a new era of industrial growth and economic opportunity.
EMPOWERING NIGERIANS: AGRICULTURE, EDUCATION, AND HOUSING
Agricultural interventions have supported millions of farmers by improving seedlings, fertilisers, mechanisation, and irrigation and by expanding access to finance and markets. We are opening new agricultural corridors to create jobs, strengthen supply chains, and reduce pressure on household incomes.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has provided over 1.5 million students with access to higher education, disbursing more than ₦282 billion to ensure that no willing student is denied access due to financial hardship.
Our Renewed Hope Housing Programme, along with that of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), is delivering over 10,000 housing units across 14 states and the FCT, creating over 300,000 jobs and expanding access to affordable housing. Major Renewed Hope Cities in Abuja, Lagos, and Kano are progressing steadily. Our consumer credit initiative, CREDICORP, is opening up new economic opportunities for workers and families.
In healthcare, thousands of primary healthcare centres are being revitalised, while health insurance coverage is expanding for vulnerable Nigerians.
DEEPENING TELECOMS ACCESS AND INVESTMENT
We also took decisive action to stabilise the telecommunications sector, which remains one of the most important drivers of modern economic growth.
After years of severe operational pressures and declining investment, confidence is gradually returning to the sector. Telecom operators are expanding networks, investing in infrastructure, recruiting Nigerian talent, and widening digital access across the country.
A connected Nigeria is a more competitive Nigeria. Digital infrastructure is now essential to commerce, education, innovation, and national productivity.
YOUTH, TECHNOLOGY AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
To our young people, I want you to know this nation believes in you. You are not a problem to be managed. You are the engine of Nigeria’s future. Across technology, manufacturing, creative industries, agriculture, sports, and entrepreneurship, we are expanding opportunities for you to compete and succeed. We are investing in digital skills, technical education, innovation, student financing, and enterprise support because the future must be driven by Nigerian talent, creativity, and productivity.
SECURITY AND NATIONAL UNITY
Security remains central to our national mission and to the creation of a virile and prosperous society. Our Armed Forces and security agencies have intensified operations against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, oil thieves, and criminal networks. While challenges remain, many communities and highways are becoming safer and more economically active. We continue investing in intelligence, surveillance, logistics, technology, and inter-agency coordination.
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
ACCEPTANCE SPEECH BY PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR, ON HIS NOMINATION AS APC PRESIDENTIAL FLAG BEARER FOR THE 2027 ELECTION DELIVERED ON SUNDAY, MAY 24, 2026, AT THE BOLA AHMED TINUBU INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE, ABUJA.
EnergyReformsNG retweeted
In this @BusinessDayNg interview, Jagir Baxi, Chairman and Managing Director of Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Ltd (an @exxonmobil affiliate), said:
“The incentive structure that has been codified has made Nigeria more globally competitive as an investment destination… This administration has created genuine momentum for speed, through the presidential directives, through the visible support for specific projects, through the tenor of engagement. Our obligation is to match that momentum. Protect what we have today. Bring the new capacity with urgency.”
This is precisely the objective of the Presidential directives issued by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR @NGRPresident @officialABAT
These sentiments reflect what we continue to hear from many IOCs and indigenous operators across the industry.
Link to interview:
businessday.ng/interview/art…
