Category: Corporate Affairs

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — President of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), Dr George Elombi, has called on African journalists to reshape global perceptions of the continent by highlighting its economic achievements rather than reinforcing negative stereotypes that discourage investment.

Speaking at a media roundtable in Abuja on Wednesday, Elombi said persistent negative narratives about Africa continue to undermine the continent’s ability to attract investment, mobilise capital and secure the expertise needed for sustainable development.

According to him, international media coverage of Africa is overwhelmingly dominated by stories of conflict, hunger, coups, disasters and political instability, while giving little attention to the continent’s industrial, infrastructure and economic successes.

He said the imbalance reinforces what he described as a “colonised mindset” that leaves Africa dependent on external validation.

“We must change that narrative by highlighting African successes and demonstrating that excellence is an everyday reality across the continent,” Elombi said.

The Afreximbank president also criticised international credit rating agencies for what he described as unfair assessments of African institutions, arguing that they routinely assign lower ratings simply because organisations operate on the continent.

According to him, African financial institutions, including Afreximbank, have consistently recorded lower loan default rates than many institutions in other regions despite being labelled as high-risk.

“What is the basis for describing Africa as a risky environment when less money is lost here than elsewhere? We must change that narrative to show that Africa is not more risky than the rest of the world, at least in terms of loan defaults,” he said.

Elombi expressed support for the African Union’s plan to establish an independent African credit rating agency, saying such an institution would assess African businesses based on local realities rather than external biases.

“We must have an African rating agency run by Africans and based in Africa to rate corporates seeking finance according to our realities on the continent,” he added.

Highlighting Afreximbank’s development initiatives, Elombi cited the African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) in Abuja as a flagship project designed to reduce medical tourism by providing world-class specialised healthcare, particularly in cardiology and haematology.

He disclosed that the bank had established a 75 million-dollar endowment fund to support research into diseases such as sickle cell disorder, which disproportionately affects people of African descent.

Elombi also highlighted Afreximbank’s role in promoting industrialisation through strategic infrastructure financing.

He revealed that the bank provided 2.5 billion dollars in support for the Dangote Refinery to strengthen Africa’s energy security, reduce dependence on imported petroleum products and demonstrate the continent’s capacity to process its own raw materials.

He added that Afreximbank has since supported the refinery with a further one billion-dollar working capital facility while also serving as financial adviser on Nigeria’s naira-for-crude initiative.

On regional trade integration, Elombi said the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) is now operational in 28 African countries, with participation from their central banks as well as more than 190 commercial banks and fintech companies.

He described PAPSS as a transformative platform that enables cross-border trade using African currencies, reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar and strengthening intra-African commerce.

Elombi urged journalists across the continent to consistently project stories of innovation, industrialisation and economic transformation, stressing that changing Africa’s global narrative is essential to attracting investment, creating jobs and accelerating sustainable development.

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has announced another reduction in the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), marking its fourth price cut within one month, while assuring Nigerians that further reductions are expected as lower-cost crude oil gradually enters its production cycle.

The latest ₦50 per litre reduction brings the cumulative decrease in the refinery’s ex-depot petrol price to ₦200 per litre since May 30, 2026, lowering the gantry price to ₦1,075 per litre.

Over the same period, the refinery has reduced the ex-depot price of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel, by ₦300 per litre, while Jet A1 aviation fuel has recorded a cumulative reduction of ₦520 per litre.

The company said the successive price cuts underscore its commitment to ensuring Nigerians benefit from favourable market developments while maintaining the operational and financial sustainability of Africa’s largest refinery.

The clarification comes amid growing public concern over the continued high cost of petroleum products despite the recent decline in global crude oil prices following the ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Dangote Refinery explained that petroleum product prices do not immediately mirror daily movements in international crude oil prices because crude is procured weeks—and in some cases months—before it is refined.

According to the company, crude supply contracts are largely based on monthly average pricing mechanisms rather than prevailing spot market prices.

As a result, the petroleum products currently being supplied to the Nigerian market are being produced from inventories acquired when crude prices were substantially higher than current international benchmarks.

The refinery disclosed that the average landed cost of crude processed in May was approximately 124.80 US dollars per barrel, while June averaged 95.25 US dollars per barrel, compared with the current international benchmark price of about 71.01 US dollars per barrel.

It also noted that its crude purchases are not based solely on the Brent benchmark quoted in international markets but include Dated Brent premiums, freight and logistics costs, resulting in significantly higher landed costs.

Despite the elevated feedstock costs, the refinery said it deliberately absorbed a substantial portion of the increase instead of transferring the full burden to consumers.

According to the company, the strategy was adopted to promote market stability, ease inflationary pressures and shield Nigerians from the extreme volatility experienced in global energy markets.

“These reductions demonstrate our commitment to passing on cost efficiencies to consumers while maintaining the operational and financial sustainability of domestic refining,” the statement said.

The company added that the latest ₦50 per litre reduction is the fourth cut in petrol prices within one month, stressing that its pricing decisions are based on actual production economics and inventory costs rather than short-term fluctuations in international oil prices.

Dangote Refinery also highlighted the strategic role of domestic refining in strengthening Nigeria’s energy security.

It said local refining has significantly reduced dependence on imported petroleum products, conserved foreign exchange and enhanced price stability for consumers and businesses.

Looking ahead, the refinery expressed optimism that fuel prices would continue to moderate as lower-cost crude cargoes gradually replace higher-priced inventories, provided international market conditions remain favourable.

“Our objective remains unchanged: to supply high-quality, internationally compliant petroleum products at competitive prices while strengthening Nigeria’s energy security, supporting economic growth and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Africa’s largest refinery,” the company said.

It thanked Nigerians for their continued confidence and support, reaffirming its commitment to building a stable, efficient and globally competitive downstream petroleum industry that serves the interests of consumers, businesses and the nation.

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has defended its petroleum pricing strategy amid growing public concern over the cost of fuel, explaining that domestic pump prices cannot immediately reflect declines in international crude oil prices because of the time lag between crude procurement and refining.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the refinery said it remains committed to ensuring Nigerians benefit from favourable market conditions through fair, responsible and sustainable pricing of petroleum products.

The clarification comes amid mounting calls for further reductions in fuel prices following the sharp decline in global crude oil prices after the ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran.

According to the company, it has already reduced the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol, by more than ₦200 per litre since May 30, 2026.

It added that the ex-depot price of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), also known as diesel, has been cut by ₦300 per litre, while Jet A1 aviation fuel has recorded a cumulative reduction of ₦520 per litre over the same period.

The refinery said the reductions were implemented despite continuing to process crude oil purchased when international oil prices were significantly higher than current levels.

“These reductions demonstrate our commitment to passing on cost efficiencies to consumers while maintaining the operational and financial sustainability of domestic refining,” the company said.

Dangote Refinery explained that petroleum product prices do not move in tandem with daily fluctuations in international crude oil benchmarks because crude oil is typically purchased several weeks or months before refining.

It noted that most crude supply contracts are based on monthly average pricing mechanisms rather than prevailing spot market prices.

As a result, the petroleum products currently being supplied to the Nigerian market are largely produced from crude inventories acquired at substantially higher prices.

According to the refinery, the average landed cost of crude processed in May stood at approximately 124.80 US dollars per barrel, while the average for June was 95.25 US dollars per barrel, compared with the current international benchmark price of about 71.01 US dollars per barrel.

The company also explained that its crude purchases are not based solely on the widely reported Brent benchmark price.

Instead, it said, its feedstock is acquired using a pricing formula based on Dated Brent plus applicable market premiums, freight and logistics costs, resulting in higher landed costs than headline international quotations.

Despite the elevated procurement costs, the refinery said it deliberately absorbed a substantial portion of the increase rather than transferring the full burden to consumers.

According to the company, the decision was aimed at promoting market stability, easing inflationary pressures and protecting Nigerians from the extreme volatility experienced in global energy markets.

It argued that petroleum prices in Nigeria remain lower than those in neighbouring countries, even after accounting for taxes.

The refinery disclosed that the latest ₦50 per litre reduction announced this week represents the fourth cut in petrol prices within one month, bringing cumulative reductions to more than ₦200 per litre.

It stressed that its pricing decisions are based on actual production economics and inventory costs rather than short-term movements in international oil prices.

Dangote Refinery further highlighted the strategic importance of domestic refining, saying its current production capacity is sufficient to meet Nigeria’s fuel demand.

The company said increased local refining has strengthened the country’s energy security, reduced dependence on imported petroleum products, conserved foreign exchange and improved price stability for consumers and businesses.

Looking ahead, the refinery expressed optimism that fuel prices would continue to moderate as lower-cost crude cargoes gradually replace higher-priced inventories in its production cycle.

It, however, noted that further reductions would depend on favourable conditions in the international oil market.

“Our objective remains unchanged: to supply high-quality, internationally compliant petroleum products at competitive prices while strengthening Nigeria’s energy security, supporting economic growth and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Africa’s largest refinery,” the statement said.

The company thanked Nigerians for their continued support and reiterated its commitment to building a stable, efficient and globally competitive downstream petroleum industry that serves the interests of consumers, businesses and the nation.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited generated ₦4.335 trillion in revenue and recorded a profit after tax of ₦462 billion in May 2026, underscoring strong operational performance across its upstream and midstream businesses.

The figures were contained in the company’s Monthly Report Summary for May 2026, released on Wednesday.

According to the report, NNPC also made cumulative statutory payments of ₦4.858 trillion between January and May 2026, reflecting its continued contribution to government revenue.

The company reported an average crude oil and condensate production of 1.73 million barrels per day (mmbopd) during the month, while natural gas production stood at 7,774 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd).

NNPC said upstream pipeline availability remained high at 98 per cent, highlighting improved operational efficiency and reliability across its production network.

The report also showed significant progress on two of Nigeria’s major gas infrastructure projects.

According to the company, the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) Gas Pipeline Project has reached 97 per cent completion, while the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline Project stands at 94 per cent completion.

The projects are expected to strengthen domestic gas transportation, improve energy security and support industrial development upon completion.

The report further indicated that Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) availability across NNPC Retail Limited stations stood at 57 per cent during the reporting period.

Beyond its commercial operations, NNPC highlighted ongoing investments in healthcare through its corporate social responsibility initiatives.

The company disclosed that on May 15, 2026, the NNPC Foundation commissioned and handed over a state-of-the-art 1.5 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) system to the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) in Nnewi, Anambra State.

The facility includes chillers, an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) system, battery racks and a dedicated backup power system designed to improve diagnostic services at the tertiary health institution.

NNPC said the May performance reflects its continued focus on operational excellence, infrastructure development, energy security and sustainable value creation across Nigeria’s oil and gas value chain.

The company noted that its operational achievements, financial performance and strategic investments remain aligned with its objective of driving national economic growth while delivering value to stakeholders and host communities.

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — Chairman and founder of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has called on the Federal Government to review taxes and charges imposed on airlines, warning that the current burden could threaten the sustainability of Nigeria’s aviation industry.

Speaking during an interview on Arise Television’s Morning Show, monitored by our correspondent on Tuesday, Onyema said excessive taxation was placing significant pressure on airline operators and could lead to the collapse of more carriers if urgent action was not taken.

“You don’t use airlines to raise revenue directly for a nation. Airlines generate economic benefits indirectly through tourism, trade and other sectors,” he said.

Onyema disclosed that airline operators were seeking an audience with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to discuss challenges facing the industry and advocate for reforms that would support growth and sustainability.

According to him, the collapse of any major airline would have far-reaching consequences for the economy, including job losses and increased financial exposure for lending institutions.

“If any airline goes down, the banks will take the hit,” he said.

The Air Peace chairman urged the President to establish an aviation tax review committee comprising government officials, technocrats and industry stakeholders to examine existing charges and recommend reforms.

He particularly criticised the five per cent passenger charge collected by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), describing it as unfair to operators.

Onyema also addressed criticism over a recent Air Peace flight delay involving Nollywood actress Funke Akindele, explaining that the disruption was caused by a bird strike and safety concerns.

According to him, the airline prioritises passenger safety above all considerations and would never operate a flight if safety could not be guaranteed.

“Was there a bird strike? Yes. Did the captain come out to explain the situation to passengers? Yes,” he said.

He explained that delays in baggage retrieval were subject to airport operational procedures and not solely within the airline’s control.

Onyema further condemned cyberbullying and the spread of false information against the airline, warning that Air Peace would no longer tolerate deliberate misinformation capable of damaging its reputation.

“Cyberbullying is a crime. You cannot peddle falsehood against an airline and go scot-free,” he said.

The Air Peace founder highlighted the airline’s record of assisting Nigerians during emergencies, including evacuation missions and the repatriation of citizens stranded abroad.

Reflecting on Air Peace’s intervention during xenophobic attacks in South Africa, Onyema said patriotism and national service had always guided his actions.

“All my life, I have lived for this country. You cannot go to the grave with your money. I do it to encourage Nigerians to love their country,” he said.

Commenting on recent anti-immigration protests and attacks on African migrants in South Africa, Onyema criticised acts of xenophobia and urged Nigerians to respond through economic competitiveness rather than hostility.

“The kind of retaliation I want is for Nigeria to become stronger economically and attract investment. That is the best response,” he said.

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — Air Peace has received approval from Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) to operate scheduled passenger and cargo services to and from the South American country, marking a major milestone in the airline’s international expansion drive.

The approval, contained in ANAC Ordinance No. 19.449/2026, authorises the Nigerian carrier to operate regular air services between Brazil and destinations across its network.

The development paves the way for direct air connectivity between Nigeria and Brazil by a Nigerian airline, further expanding Air Peace’s growing international footprint.

The approval adds to the list of global destinations served by the airline as it pursues its long-term ambition of becoming a leading international carrier.

The latest development comes as Air Peace prepares to launch new regional services from Lagos to Douala in Cameroon, Libreville in Gabon, Bamako in Mali and Conakry in Guinea from August 1, 2026.

The airline said the new routes form part of its broader strategy to strengthen connectivity across West and Central Africa while promoting trade, tourism, investment and regional integration.

Under the schedule, the Lagos–Douala–Libreville route will operate four times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

The Lagos–Bamako–Conakry service will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

According to the airline, the additional destinations will further strengthen Lagos’ position as a major aviation hub connecting West and Central Africa to its extensive domestic and international network.

Passengers travelling from the new destinations will also enjoy onward connections to major Nigerian cities, including Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Benin, Owerri, Kano, Asaba, Ibadan, Yola, Maiduguri and Gombe.

The expansion is also expected to improve access to Air Peace’s international destinations, including London Gatwick in the United Kingdom and Caribbean destinations such as Antigua and Barbados.

Commenting on the development, the airline said the expansion reflects its commitment to providing safe, reliable and affordable air transportation across Africa and beyond.

“The launch of these new regional services underscores our commitment to connecting Africa through safe, reliable and affordable air transportation.

“By expanding our footprint across West and Central Africa, we are facilitating commerce, tourism, investment and regional integration,” the airline stated.

Air Peace noted that the expansion aligns with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), both of which seek to improve connectivity and reduce travel barriers across the continent.

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — The Federal Government has partnered with RwandAir to expand an air cargo corridor aimed at reducing export costs, improving logistics and boosting intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, announced the initiative during the inaugural shipment ceremony under the expanded corridor in Lagos.

She said the partnership would provide Nigerian exporters with lower freight rates and enhanced access to key African markets, including Kigali in Rwanda, Lusaka in Zambia and Harare in Zimbabwe.

According to Oduwole, the expanded arrangement also offers additional carrier options on existing routes to Nairobi, Kenya, and Johannesburg, South Africa.

She disclosed that cargo rates on RwandAir-operated routes had been reduced to below $2 per kilogramme from previous rates ranging between $3 and $10 per kilogramme.

The minister noted that the preferential rates would be available to exporters holding an AfCFTA Certificate of Origin issued by the Nigeria Customs Service.

“The expanded corridor directly addresses the challenge of high logistics costs by providing faster, more affordable and predictable export options for Nigerian businesses,” she said.

“If you ever wonder whether the AfCFTA is real, or what it means, this corridor, pioneered by Nigeria, provides a concrete answer.”

Oduwole recalled that the corridor was first launched on May 25, 2025, covering routes to Entebbe in Uganda, Nairobi in Kenya and Johannesburg in South Africa.

She said the initiative recorded a 40 per cent increase in export volumes within its first year of operation.

“That growth represents increased production, jobs, export revenue and stronger commercial relationships between Nigerian businesses and African buyers, particularly for women-led enterprises,” she said.

The minister described Nigeria as a leading advocate of the AfCFTA, noting that it remains the first and currently the only African country with a dedicated logistics solution designed to significantly lower the cost of moving goods across the continent.

Also speaking, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said the initiative aligned with ongoing efforts to achieve a Single African Air Transport Market and eliminate barriers to trade and movement across Africa.

According to Keyamo, discussions at a recent aviation conference in Lomé, Togo, focused on removing visa restrictions and protectionist policies that continue to hinder seamless air connectivity on the continent.

“You cannot transform Africa or promote the AfCFTA without connecting Africa first,” he said.

“While the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment is driving trade facilitation, we in aviation are working to open up African skies and ensure the free movement of goods and people across the continent.”

The minister also disclosed plans to commence cargo flights between Guangzhou, China, and Enugu by December to strengthen trade flows and improve logistics for Nigerian businesses.

He said the initiative would support major commercial centres, including Aba and Onitsha, through more efficient cargo distribution networks.

Representing the Rwandan Embassy in Nigeria, Vianney Rubagumwa described the inaugural export flight as a practical demonstration of Africa’s commitment to translating AfCFTA objectives into tangible economic benefits.

He said the partnership would reduce trade barriers, improve logistics and create new opportunities for exporters seeking access to markets across East and Southern Africa.

Rubagumwa added that Rwanda remained committed to regional integration and trade facilitation, noting that the collaboration would further strengthen economic ties among West, East and Southern Africa.

Also speaking, Comptroller Chidi Nworie, who represented the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, said the initiative would create new opportunities for exporters while enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional markets.

According to him, the corridor is expected to boost market access for Nigerian products, increase foreign exchange earnings, create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

“The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to trade facilitation through simplified customs procedures, stakeholder engagement, technology-driven processes and effective border management,” Nworie said.

Stakeholders and exporters at the event expressed optimism that the expanded corridor would deepen regional integration, improve the competitiveness of Nigerian exports and accelerate the realisation of AfCFTA objectives.

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — United Nigeria Airlines has named two newly acquired Boeing 737-800NG aircraft after renowned Nigerian literary icon, Professor Chinua Achebe, and the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, in recognition of their enduring contributions to society.

The aircraft were unveiled on Thursday in Lagos by Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, who commended the airline for honouring two distinguished Nigerians whose legacies continue to inspire generations.

In a statement issued after the event, Otti described the gesture as a fitting tribute to individuals who have made significant contributions to national development and cultural heritage.

“Today in Lagos, I had the honour of unveiling two newly acquired Boeing 737-800NG aircraft by United Nigeria Airlines, named in recognition of two exceptional sons of Nigeria: the late Professor Chinua Achebe, the globally celebrated literary icon, and His Royal Majesty, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, CFR, the Obi of Onitsha,” the governor said.

Otti praised the Chairman and Founder of United Nigeria Airlines, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, for immortalising personalities whose impact has transcended generations.

“I commend Professor Obiora Okonkwo for this thoughtful gesture. Honouring excellence and service inspires future generations and strengthens our collective national identity,” he said.

The governor noted that the acquisition of the aircraft reflects growing confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector and demonstrates the resilience and expansion of indigenous enterprises.

He also lauded the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, for implementing reforms aimed at creating a more conducive environment for private sector participation in the aviation industry.

According to Otti, ongoing initiatives such as aircraft leasing arrangements would strengthen local airlines, improve access to aviation assets and enhance the competitiveness of indigenous carriers.

“I particularly welcome ongoing efforts to strengthen local airlines through innovative initiatives such as aircraft leasing arrangements, which will enhance competitiveness, improve access to aviation assets and support sustainable growth across the sector,” he said.

The governor further expressed appreciation for the Federal Government’s support for the Abia Airport project, disclosing that construction work on the runway had reached an advanced stage.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering a world-class airport capable of boosting economic activities, improving connectivity and positioning Abia State as a major destination for commerce and investment.

Otti congratulated United Nigeria Airlines on the milestone and wished the airline greater success in its efforts to contribute to national development, create employment opportunities and strengthen Nigeria’s aviation industry.

He also commended the airline’s management and stakeholders for their vision and dedication in making the acquisition possible.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — NNPC Limited and TotalEnergies have renewed their partnership to accelerate methane emissions reduction across Nigeria’s upstream oil and gas sector through the continued deployment of advanced emissions-monitoring technology.

The two companies signed an agreement extending the use of the Airborne Ultralight Spectrometer for Environmental Applications (AUSEA) technology for an additional 24 months.

The agreement was signed at the NNPC Towers in Abuja by NNPC Ltd’s Executive Vice President, Upstream, Mr. Udy Ntia, and TotalEnergies Country Chair and Managing Director, Mr. Matthieu Bouyer.

The renewed partnership builds on an earlier agreement signed in 2023 for the adoption of the AUSEA technology, which is designed to detect, measure, and reduce methane and carbon emissions across oil and gas operations.

According to NNPC, the initiative forms part of its broader strategy to meet gas flare reduction obligations and advance its decarbonisation objectives under the Oil and Gas Decarbonisation Charter (OGDC), the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP) 2.0, and its commitment to achieving near-zero methane emissions by 2030.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ntia expressed satisfaction with the results recorded during the first phase of the project and called for wider deployment of the technology across additional assets.

“Today’s signing represents a practical step in NNPC Limited’s journey to build a credible, transparent, and action-oriented decarbonisation programme,” he said.

“Through the AUSEA initiative, we are strengthening our ability to detect, quantify, and prioritise methane abatement opportunities using advanced measurement technology.”

He also advocated stronger progress reporting mechanisms to support regulatory compliance and stressed the importance of exploring opportunities for technology transfer.

On his part, TotalEnergies Senior Vice President for Africa, Mr. Mike Sangster, described the partnership as a reflection of the strong cooperation between both companies.

Sangster noted that TotalEnergies was the first oil-producing company in Nigeria to eliminate routine gas flaring across all its assets, adding that the AUSEA technology played a significant role in achieving that milestone.

He said the company remains committed to its target of achieving near-zero methane emissions by 2030.

The AUSEA system is a drone-based technology developed by TotalEnergies in collaboration with the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and the University of Reims.

The technology enables operators to identify previously undetected emission sources, improve emissions reporting processes, assess flare combustion efficiency, and generate data needed to implement corrective operational measures.

Industry experts say methane reduction has become a major priority for the global energy sector because methane is one of the most potent greenhouse gases contributing to climate change.

The renewed partnership underscores growing efforts by energy companies operating in Nigeria to align with global environmental standards, reduce carbon footprints, and support the transition to more sustainable energy production.

NNPC said the collaboration with TotalEnergies will strengthen transparency, improve environmental performance, and contribute to Nigeria’s broader climate and energy transition goals.

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — Air Peace has announced the launch of scheduled flight services from Lagos to Douala (Cameroon), Libreville (Gabon), Bamako (Mali), and Conakry (Guinea), effective August 1, 2026.

The new routes form part of the airline’s expansion strategy aimed at strengthening connectivity across West and Central Africa while supporting trade, tourism, investment, and regional integration.

Under the new schedule, Air Peace will operate the Lagos–Douala–Libreville route four times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

The Lagos–Bamako–Conakry service will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

The airline said the additional destinations will further strengthen Lagos’ position as a major aviation hub linking West and Central Africa with its extensive domestic and international network.

Passengers travelling from Douala, Libreville, Bamako, and Conakry will have access to onward connections to several Nigerian cities, including Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Benin, Owerri, Kano, Asaba, Ibadan, Yola, Maiduguri, and Gombe.

According to a report by The Travel Port, the new services will also provide easier access to Air Peace’s international destinations, including London Gatwick in the United Kingdom and Caribbean destinations such as Antigua and Barbados.

Commenting on the development, Air Peace management said the expansion reflects the airline’s commitment to providing safe, reliable, and affordable air transportation across Africa.

“The launch of these new regional services underscores our commitment to connecting Africa through safe, reliable, and affordable air transportation. By expanding our footprint across West and Central Africa, we are facilitating commerce, tourism, investment, and regional integration,” the airline said.

Air Peace noted that the routes align with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), which seek to improve connectivity and reduce travel barriers across the continent.

Bookings for the new services are now available through the airline’s website, mobile application, contact centre, and accredited travel agencies.

The carrier said it remains committed to expanding access to air travel while strengthening Nigeria’s position as a leading aviation gateway in Africa.