By Yemi Akinsuyi
Nigeria’s growing stature in global energy diplomacy has been reaffirmed through its recent success at the 27th Ministerial Meeting of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) held in Doha, Qatar a gathering that brings together the world’s leading gas-producing nations to coordinate policies and promote energy security and market stability.
At the meeting, Dr Philip Mshelbila, Managing Director of Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), was elected Secretary-General of the GECF, while Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), was chosen as President of the 2026 GECF Ministerial Meeting.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, while congratulating them said Nigeria’s securing of these global leadership positions was made possible through sustained energy diplomacy and strategic engagement led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“This outcome is the product of deliberate, quiet diplomacy and Nigeria’s sustained engagement with fellow gas-exporting nations,” Ambassador Tuggar stated. “It validates the confidence of the international community in Nigeria’s integrity, competence, and leadership within the global energy transition space.
“Dr Mshelbila’s election and Minister Ekpo’s new mandate both reflect our country’s commitment to promoting cooperation, market stability, and inclusivity across the gas value chain. Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Nigeria continues to project responsible energy leadership rooted in democracy, development, and diplomacy.”
Ambassador Tuggar emphasized that Nigeria’s growing role within the GECF an intergovernmental organization representing the majority of the world’s proven gas reserves and over 70% of global LNG trade underscores the country’s centrality to shaping the future of sustainable energy.
He affirmed that Dr Mshelbila and Minister Ekpo will represent Nigeria with distinction, working closely with other member states to deepen cooperation, strengthen market stability, and advance a balanced, inclusive, and sustainable global gas market.
