Tinubu Hails Nigeria’s Rising Influence in Global Gas Diplomacy as Mshelbila, Ekpo Secure Top GECF Positions
By Passman Akpos
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated two distinguished Nigerians — Dr. Philip Mshelbila, Managing Director of Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), and Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) — for their landmark achievements at the 27th Ministerial Meeting of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) held in Doha, Qatar.
Dr. Mshelbila was elected as the new Secretary-General of the GECF, a coalition representing the world’s leading gas-producing nations, while Minister Ekpo emerged as President of the Forum’s 2026 Ministerial Meeting.
In a statement obtained by Tarakirivoice,by the State House and signed by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described the twin recognitions as “a resounding affirmation of Nigeria’s leadership and technical expertise in the global gas sector.”
> “The Nigerian government is proud of Dr. Mshelbila’s election as Secretary-General and Minister Ekpo’s emergence as President of the GECF Ministerial Meeting. These positions reflect the international community’s confidence in Nigeria’s leadership and technical expertise in the global gas sector,” President Tinubu stated.
The President expressed strong confidence in both appointees, noting that their stewardship will “strengthen cooperation, stability, and inclusivity in the global gas market.”
Tinubu reaffirmed that natural gas remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s industrial growth, energy security, and economic transformation under his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to advancing equitable energy access and a cleaner energy future, pledging that the country will continue to be a dependable voice in international energy diplomacy.
The President’s congratulatory message underscores Nigeria’s growing influence within the GECF — an organization whose member states collectively control over 70 percent of global gas reserves — and signals a renewed drive to position the nation at the forefront of global energy transition discussions.
