- NNPC Ramps Up Solar, Biofuels, and Clean Cooking Initiative
The Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, has unveiled a bold and people-centered ambition: to ensure that every Nigerian home has access to a bottle of cooking gas.
This ambition, according to Ojulari, is part of a broader vision to drive inclusive energy access, reduce harmful emissions, contribute to national energy security, and align with global energy transition goals.
Ojulari made this assertion earlier today at the ongoing NOG Energy Week 2025, where he outlined NNPC’s transformation journey, market-driven reforms, and long-term strategic direction—including its path to becoming Africa’s premier integrated energy company.
Clean Cooking for Every Home
Speaking during a fireside chat, Ojulari highlighted a shocking World Health Organization (WHO) statistic that over 120,000 women and children die annually in Nigeria due to harmful indoor emissions caused by unsafe cooking fuels.
“When I think about that, I’m sober. We can’t solve all the world’s problems, but this is one we can do something about,” he said. “I’m collaborating with the Minister on our ambition to make sure every home has a bottle of cooking gas. That’s our ambition. We will do the best we can.” — Ojulari
The clean cooking campaign aligns with NNPC’s growing commitment to serve not only as a commercial entity but also as a force for good. The plan seeks to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on firewood, charcoal, and kerosene—fuels that remain in widespread use, especially in low-income and rural communities.
Ojulari emphasized that beyond environmental benefits, this initiative will result in better health outcomes, economic empowerment, and safer living conditions, particularly for women and children.
Driving a Low-Carbon Future
Emphasizing the new NNPC direction under his leadership, Ojulari noted that the company is focused on integrating clean energy and household energy solutions into its operations.
According to him, the company’s energy transition strategy includes investments in:
- Gas as a transition fuel,
- Solar energy, and
- Biofuels.
These efforts position NNPC as a key driver in Nigeria’s shift toward a low-carbon economy.
“The mix ahead of us is very clear—produce oil to generate the funds, develop gas as a cleaner alternative, and accelerate renewable energy,” Ojulari said.
Decarbonization and Emissions Reduction
Ojulari echoed the continent-wide stance in the fossil fuel industry—emphasizing the need for decarbonization without discarding the technological potential of hydrocarbons.
“The world doesn’t necessarily need zero oil—it needs low-carbon solutions. Imagine putting PMS in your car and having water come out the exhaust? That’s where technology is taking us.”
He explained that NNPC has undergone internal restructuring, including the appointment of a new Executive Vice President for Gas, Power, and New Energy, to help accelerate the deployment of these clean energy solutions.
Transforming Lives, One Household at a Time
As NNPC redefines itself as a performance-driven, transparent, and accountable energy company, its clean energy initiatives reflect a new dimension of its role: meeting the basic energy needs of Nigerians, starting from the home.
From building a reliable energy mix to supporting public health, NNPC’s clean cooking and renewable energy drive signals a national shift towards practical, inclusive, and sustainable energy solutions.
