Nigeria has entered a new chapter of global pride as two of her sons rose to lead the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), a body that brings together the world’s major gas-producing nations. Their emergence did not happen by chance. It is a story of vision, discipline, perseverance and the remarkable truth that excellence grown in Nigeria can rise to the world stage.
For Dr. Philip Mshelbila, his journey began long before the global spotlight. A trained medical doctor who later built a successful career in the energy industry, he climbed through years of technical work, leadership responsibilities and strategic decision-making. As the Managing Director of Nigeria LNG, he has been known for his calm-but-firm leadership style, his commitment to operational excellence and his belief that Africa has a meaningful voice in the energy future. When he was elected Secretary-General of the GECF, it was more than a personal achievement. It was a moment that signalled that Nigeria’s knowledge, skills and global credibility in the gas sector had reached a new height. His election gives Nigeria not only a seat at the global table, but the power to influence conversations on gas development, investment, cleaner energy pathways and opportunities for emerging economies.
Alongside him is a leader from the public sector whose work is equally inspiring. Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), has spent years advocating for gas as a tool for national development, job creation and economic transformation. His leadership is driven by the belief that gas can power industries, support households, strengthen the economy and position Nigeria as a continent-wide energy leader. His selection to preside over the GECF Ministerial Meeting in 2026 places Nigeria in a rare position: holding both the administrative and ministerial leadership at the same time. It sends a message of trust, that Nigeria has the capacity, vision and experience to lead global energy discussions with wisdom and fairness.
These two leaders represent different sides of the same story. One rose through corporate expertise, strategy and operational leadership, while the other built influence through public service, diplomacy and national policy. Yet their paths meet at the same destination - global leadership. Their emergence shows young Nigerians that there are many routes to excellence, and that impact can be made whether one starts in the private sector, public service, academia or entrepreneurship.
It also comes at a time when the world is redefining its energy future. Nations are seeking cleaner and more reliable sources of energy, and natural gas is seen as a bridge to a more sustainable future. Nigeria, with its vast gas resources, has long been described as a “sleeping giant”. The rise of these two leaders is a call for that giant to wake fully. Under their leadership, Nigeria can push for investment in gas pipelines, power plants, local processing, industrial growth and skills development. It can shape fair global policies that protect the interests of developing nations. It can secure partnerships that help young professionals gain knowledge, training and global exposure. And most importantly, it can ensure that gas wealth translates into better lives for ordinary Nigerians.
There is also a deeper message that their rise carries. It reminds the world that brilliance exists in Nigeria. It tells the continent that African voices are not only participants in world affairs , they can guide the direction. It shows young dreamers in classrooms, offices and communities across the country that they do not need to shrink their dreams to fit their surroundings. With discipline, competence and consistency, their stories too can inspire the continent.
Their leadership is a gift of pride to Nigeria, but also a responsibility. The world is watching how Nigeria will use this opportunity. Will it open new doors for investment? Will it shape policies that benefit Africa? Will it develop its people to stand tall in the global arena? The answers lie in the choices made in the years ahead.
What is certain is that the journey of Dr. Philip Mshelbila and Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo has already lit a torch. It is a torch for Nigeria’s energy future, a torch of African leadership and a torch of inspiration for every Nigerian who dares to dream beyond borders. Their story teaches us that success does not start on the world stage, it begins in quiet dedication, consistent growth and the courage to serve with excellence.
Nigeria now stands at a powerful moment in history. Two of her own are helping guide the direction of global energy. Their rise is not simply a celebration of personal achievement, but a call to every Nigerian to lift their eyes, work with purpose and remember that global leadership is not out of reach. It begins here, it begins now, and it begins with believing that the world will listen when Nigeria speaks.
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