Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Nigeria has announced that the African Energy Bank, AEB, is now fully prepared for operational takeoff, following an inspection of its headquarters by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri.
The inspection was conducted alongside the Secretary General of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization, APPO, Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim, and Afreximbank’s Executive Vice President, Mr. Haytham El Maayergi.
Lokpobiri said the readiness of the bank marks a major milestone for Nigeria and Africa’s energy financing landscape.
“This inspection highlights the high level of preparedness and the collective commitment to ensuring a smooth operational takeoff,” he stated.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the political support that accelerated Nigeria’s hosting of the continental bank.
“I sincerely commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his wisdom, vision, and support toward the actualization of this project, which aligns perfectly with the transformative objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.
The minister added that the African Energy Bank will play a pivotal role in unlocking sustainable financing for oil, gas, and renewable energy projects across the continent.
“With the progress recorded, I am confident that the African Energy Bank will soon begin delivering substantial value to Nigeria and the entire African continent,” he assured.
The AEB, promoted by APPO and Afreximbank, is expected to become Africa’s foremost energy development finance institution, providing long-term funding for upstream, midstream, downstream, and clean energy projects.
Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim described the inspection as a key final step before commencement of operations.
Mr. Haytham El Maayergi of Afreximbank reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to ensuring the bank’s smooth launch and long-term sustainability.
Lokpobiri shared photo updates of the visit on X, underscoring its significance for Nigeria’s regional energy leadership.
