The African Petroleum Regulators Forum has called for collaboration and innovation in the 2025 operational year to achieve its stated objectives.

Gbenga Komolafe, the interim chairman of the forum, on Sunday in a statement reaffirmed commitment to its collective goals in advancing Africa’s petroleum sector.

AFRIPERF, inaugurated in July 2024 during the Nigeria Oil and Gas Energy Week, is a collaborative initiative to enhance governance and regulatory practices in the African petroleum sector.

AFRIPERF seeks to promote cooperation among regulators from various African oil and gas-producing countries, including Angola, Ghana, Liberia, the Gambia, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, Sierra Leone and Senegal.

Mr Komolafe, in his New Year message to members, called for a spirit of enthusiasm, active participation and collaboration in 2025.

The interim chairman, also the chief executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, reiterated the importance of inclusivity to AFRIPERF.

He underscored the need to enhance training, research and innovation to build resilient regulatory institutions. Mr Komolafe reiterated the body’s aim to promote uniform regulatory practices that could attract investment and optimise resource management throughout Africa.

“Additionally, we advocate for Africa’s priorities in the global energy landscape while integrating renewable energy and emissions reduction into our policies.

“It is essential that we expand AFRIPERF’s reach and ensure that all members actively participate in shaping the continent’s collective future.

“Together, we can navigate challenges and seize opportunities that will benefit not only our countries but also the oil and gas sector across the continent and the communities we serve,” he said

(NAN)