Dr. Philip Mshelbila Elected Secretary-General of Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF)

Dr. Philip Mshelbila, Managing Director of Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), has been elected as the new Secretary-General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF). His election was confirmed during the 27th Ministerial Meeting of the Forum, held in Doha, Qatar.

The appointment marks a significant milestone for Nigeria’s energy leadership, as Dr. Mshelbila becomes the first Nigerian to assume the prestigious global role, succeeding Eng. Mohammad Hamad Al-Haider of Qatar.

The GECF, an intergovernmental organization of leading natural gas-producing nations, represents over 70% of the world’s proven gas reserves and plays a pivotal role in shaping international gas policies, trade frameworks, and sustainable development agendas.

Dr. Mshelbila’s election reinforces Nigeria’s influence in the global gas market and reflects international confidence in his extensive experience in LNG operations, gas infrastructure development, and energy transition strategy.

Under his leadership at NLNG, Nigeria has strengthened its gas value chain, enhanced domestic utilization, and expanded global export partnerships—aligning with the federal government’s Decade of Gas initiative.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulated Dr. Mshelbila on his appointment, describing it as “a win for Nigeria and Africa” and commending his vision and dedication to advancing clean and affordable energy solutions across the continent.

The new Secretary-General is expected to lead GECF’s agenda of promoting natural gas as a key pillar of the global energy transition, ensuring cooperation among member countries while fostering innovation, sustainability, and investment in gas infrastructure worldwide.