The Association of Energy Correspondents, Abuja (AECAF) has congratulated Mr Abdulrazaq Isa and Mr Bala Wunti on their respective appointments as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the World Energy Council (WEC) Nigeria.


AECAF, which comprises editors and reporters covering Nigeria’s oil, gas and broader energy sector in Abuja and the northern region, described the appointments as historic and well-deserved.


In a congratulatory letter to the two leaders and members of the newly constituted inaugural Board, signed by AECAF, Chairman, Mr. John Ofikhenua, the association, said, “We warmly congratulate Mr Abdulrazaq Isa, and Mr Bala Wunti on your respective appointments as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the World Energy Council Nigeria,” the letter said.


“We also congratulate the distinguished members of the inaugural Board, whose collective experience across the energy industry, regulatory institutions, finance, academia and professional associations provides a strong foundation for the Council’s work in Nigeria,” it added.


AECAF lauded Isa, co-founder and Chairman of Waltersmith Petroman Oil Limited, whose pioneering investments in indigenous refining and industrial development have strengthened local participation in the sector, noting that “his appointment as Chairman reflects the confidence placed in his leadership, entrepreneurial vision and commitment to advancing the country’s energy aspirations.”


On Wunti, a former Chief Health, Safety and Environment Officer of NNPC Ltd with more than three decades in the energy industry, AECAF said his “expertise in strategy, policy formulation, revenue optimisation and sectoral reform make him exceptionally suited for this important national responsibility.”


Nigeria has formally returned to the World Energy Council as the network’s newest Member Committee, restoring the country’s place within one of the world’s most influential energy networks. 


AECAF said the membership “provides an important platform for Nigeria to contribute meaningfully to global discussions on energy security, affordability, sustainability and equitable transition”, while offering opportunities to attract investment, deepen international partnerships and promote technological innovation.


The association commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the foresight and leadership that ensured Nigeria’s return to the Council, describing it as a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to repositioning the country as a leading voice in the global energy community.


“Once again, we congratulate Mr Isa, Mr Wunti and the entire inaugural Board. We wish you wisdom, strength and outstanding success as you undertake this historic responsibility in service to Nigeria, Africa and the global energy community,” AECAF said.