The story of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is an extraordinary tale of collective vision, cooperation, collaboration, and unwavering determination. It all began on September 14, 1960, at the Al-Shaab Hall in Iraq, where the Heads of Delegation from five Founding Nations united to establish what would eventually become a formidable force revolutionizing the history of global oil production and exports.
As OPEC is embarking on another historic era for nations and the globe, there is a resolute actions and unwavering commitment of OPEC that has left an indelible mark on history.
This exemplifies the value of perseverance and the relentless pursuit of results. As we celebrate the birth of this remarkable idea and the immense progress made by OPEC over the past 63 years, Nigeria takes great pride in joining the global community in honoring this occasion.
On behalf of our esteemed President, H.E. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the wonderful people of our beloved nation, I extend heartfelt congratulations to HRH, Their Excellencies, the Secretary General, and Members of the OPEC Conference, the Board of Governors, the Secretariat, and the Economic Commission Board on this auspicious commemoration of OPEC’s 63 years of progress.
Undoubtedly, our nation stands proudly alongside OPEC, acknowledging the significant strides made in energy governance and the transformative impact of petroleum supply worldwide over the past six decades. Alongside our fellow members and non-OPEC countries, OPEC has consistently championed lofty ideals and objectives aimed at advancing sustainable development goals through energy provision and environmental preservation.
Through extensive cooperation with non-OPEC oil-producing nations, OPEC has continued to make informed decisions in fostering market stability within the global energy sector. Nigeria is gratified to note that OPEC, in accordance with the Declaration of Cooperation initiated in 2016 between OPEC and non-OPEC countries, culminating in the signing of the Charter of Cooperation in 2019, has maintained a commendable status as an intergovernmental organization at the United Nations and worldwide.
On this momentous occasion, we, the people of Nigeria, join our OPEC counterparts and the global community in fervent prayer, echoing the sentiments of the OPEC Secretariat, for even greater prosperity and success in the days and years ahead.
Long live OPEC!
Long live our member nations!
Long live the entire globe!
Signed,
H.E. Amb. Gabriel Tanimu Aduda
Nigerian Governor of OPEC and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources
Abuja, June 16, 2023
