The Secretary General of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Haitham Al Ghais, has expressed deep gratitude to Nigeria and President Bola Tinubu for their unwavering support of the organization since Nigeria joined in 1971.
In a message commemorating OPEC’s 64th anniversary, Al Ghais said: “Today, we proudly celebrate OPEC’s founding. It is a pleasure and an honour to deliver this message to the great nation of Nigeria, which has played a pivotal role in this organisation since joining in 1971. Nigeria has been a steadfast supporter of OPEC’s mission to ensure a stable and balanced global oil market.”
He further extended his recognition to key figures in Nigeria’s oil sector, including President Tinubu; Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) and Head of Delegation to OPEC; Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, Governor for OPEC; and Mr Mele Kyari, Nigeria’s National Representative.
Al Ghais took a moment to reflect on OPEC’s founding, noting the significance of the historic 1960 meeting in Baghdad, where Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela signed the agreement that established OPEC.
“This was the birth of OPEC, and the beginning of a new era in multilateral energy cooperation,” he said.
Highlighting the organisation’s accomplishments, Al Ghais said, “Over the past decades, OPEC has remained committed to its founding principles, and continues to be a leading global advocate for oil market stability and energy security.”
He added that the 64th anniversary is an opportunity to honour the hard work of those who have contributed to OPEC’s success.
Looking ahead, Al Ghais remained optimistic about the future of the organization, saying, “While acknowledging past glories is important, it is crucial to anticipate what lies ahead. I truly believe OPEC’s greatest days are still to come. I invite you all to be part of this exciting journey into the future.”
