The 2025 African Chiefs of Defence Staff Summit held in Abuja brought together military leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to discuss regional peace and security. Among the speakers was the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd., Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, who stressed the vital connection between safeguarding resources and unlocking opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Ojulari highlighted the company's recent strides in combating crude oil theft through collaboration with government security agencies. He explained that improved pipeline availability has restored investor confidence and ensured steady energy supplies, which are critical for the survival of SMEs that rely on affordable and uninterrupted power.
According to him, protecting natural resources does not only strengthen energy security but also fuels economic growth at the grassroots. He argued that when SMEs have access to stable energy, they are better positioned to innovate, expand operations, and contribute to job creation across communities.
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The summit, themed "Combating Contemporary Threats to Regional Peace and Security in Africa: The Role of Strategic Defence Collaboration," underscored the importance of regional partnerships. Ojulari urged African nations to work together to secure resources, noting that such unity would create a more stable environment for businesses to thrive, particularly SMEs operating in vulnerable sectors.
Reaffirming NNPC Ltd.'s commitment, Ojulari said the company would continue to collaborate with military and intelligence agencies to protect the nation's assets. He concluded that energy stability remains the backbone of Africa's industrial future, and safeguarding it will ensure SMEs across the continent are empowered to drive inclusive and sustainable prosperity.
