35% of Africa’s oil operations now led by local companies

35% of Africa’s oil operations now led by local companies

In 2024, Africa attracted over $120 billion in energy sector investments, with $75 billion allocated to oil and gas development, establishing the continent as a prime destination for international investors and energy companies. This surge reflects not only Africa’s vast natural resources but also its growing technical and entrepreneurial capacity to manage its own assets and lead sustainable development. The fourth edition of the International African Energy, Oil and Gas Summit (IAEOGS 2025) will take place in Namibia, bringing together global financiers, high-profile project developers, and leaders from Africa’s energy sector. Supported by the Nigerian Ministry of Petroleum, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, and key private sector stakeholders, the summit underscores Africa’s expanding influence in the global energy industry.

Namibia is once again emerging as a strategic frontier for oil and gas. Discoveries by companies such as Shell, TotalEnergies, and Galp in the Orange Basin have put the country on the international map. Despite certain challenges, investor interest remains strong. TotalEnergies plans to begin production at its Venus discovery in 2029, while Galp continues development at the Mopane field, demonstrating that Africa is not only attracting capital but also leading technically complex projects. “The IAEOGS 2025 Summit will bring together industry leaders to strengthen a more resilient and self-sufficient African energy, oil, and gas landscape,” said the President of the African Petroleum Producers Association, Honorable Justice Suleiman Galadima. Noah Ajare, CEO of the organizing group, added, “Africa is ripe for investment, and the summit connects international firms with their African counterparts, fostering collaboration and regional growth.”

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The summit’s central theme, “Getting it Right,” reflects Africa’s vision to translate natural resources into inclusive economic growth and community opportunities. The continent holds more than 125 billion barrels of proven oil reserves and 620 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, critical assets as global markets seek diversified, stable, and low-emission energy supplies. Yet, more than 600 million Africans still lack reliable electricity access, highlighting the dual economic and social imperative to accelerate investment. IAEOGS 2025 will feature roundtables, sector-focused panels, exhibitions, B2B and B2G meetings, financing access, guided tours, presidential dinners, and a charity golf tournament at Windhoek Golf & Country Club, aimed at supporting youth entrepreneurship and technical education. The event is expected to host over 1,000 delegates, 250 exhibitors, and 200 speakers from more than 45 countries, with projected investment deals exceeding $1 billion.

The summit also celebrates local industry achievements. African companies now control 35% of oil and gas operations continent-wide, up from 20% a decade ago. In Nigeria, local producers generate over 50% of national crude output, supported by landmark projects such as Green Energy International’s onshore export terminal in Otakikpo, with a capacity of 360,000 barrels per day. This African-led growth demonstrates that local companies are not mere participants but strategic leaders driving innovation and sector development.

IAEOGS 2025 aims to strengthen local value chains, promote a just and inclusive energy transition, advance digitalization and emerging technologies, and build a resilient and competitive African energy sector. With registration open until August 30, 2025, and a 50% discount for Namibia-based companies, the summit provides an unparalleled platform for Africa to showcase its global leadership and define its energy future—proving that the continent is not only a recipient of investment but a driver of global development.

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