Mónica Quintela has been officially sworn in as president of the African Petroleum Producers' Association (APAR), marking a pivotal moment for energy policy in Africa. The announcement, made in Abuja on 12 June 2025, comes as the continent grapples with energy insecurity and the need for sustainable development. Quintela, a veteran energy strategist, will lead APAR through a critical phase of continental energy reform, with a focus on aligning African oil and gas policies with global climate goals.
Quintela’s Leadership and African Development Goals
Quintela’s appointment signals a shift in APAR’s strategy, with a renewed emphasis on balancing energy access and environmental sustainability. The new president has pledged to work closely with African governments to ensure that energy policies support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 7 — affordable and clean energy for all. This aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which prioritises infrastructure and energy development across the continent.
Her leadership comes at a time when over 600 million Africans still lack reliable electricity, according to the International Energy Agency. Quintela has already outlined plans to increase investment in renewable energy projects, especially in sub-Saharan regions. In a recent interview with the Nigerian Business Day, she stated, “Africa cannot afford to be left behind in the energy transition. We must harness our resources to power development without compromising our future.”
Diogo Cabrita’s Role in APAR’s Strategy
Quintela’s leadership is supported by Diogo Cabrita, the newly appointed executive director of APAR. Cabrita, a former energy minister in Portugal, brings a wealth of experience in energy policy and international cooperation. His appointment was announced in March 2025, and he has since been working on forging partnerships with global energy agencies and private sector players.
Cabrita’s role is critical in navigating the complex landscape of African energy. He has already begun engaging with the African Development Bank and the World Bank to secure funding for clean energy projects. In a statement, he said, “We need to create a model that ensures Africa’s energy needs are met while contributing to global climate targets.”
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the optimism, Quintela and Cabrita face several challenges. One major obstacle is the continent’s reliance on fossil fuels, particularly in countries like Nigeria, Angola, and Algeria. These nations are heavily dependent on oil and gas revenues, making the transition to renewable energy a delicate process. Additionally, political instability and underfunded energy sectors in many African countries complicate the implementation of new policies.
However, the opportunities are vast. Africa has some of the highest solar and wind potential in the world, and with the right investments, it could become a global leader in clean energy. Quintela has already announced plans to launch a regional energy initiative, focusing on cross-border power sharing and green infrastructure development.
What This Means for Nigeria
Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, is a key player in APAR’s new direction. The country has faced energy shortages for years, with only 55% of its population having access to electricity, according to the World Bank. Quintela’s emphasis on sustainable energy could bring much-needed reforms to Nigeria’s energy sector, especially as the country seeks to diversify its economy.
Analysts suggest that the new APAR leadership could lead to more coordinated energy policies across the continent. “This is a chance for Nigeria and other oil-dependent nations to rethink their energy strategies,” said Dr. Adebayo Adesina, an energy economist at the University of Lagos. “If done right, it could create jobs, reduce poverty, and boost economic growth.”
Looking Ahead: What to Watch
The coming months will be crucial for APAR’s new leadership. Quintela and Cabrita have set a deadline of December 2025 for the launch of the first regional energy initiative. This will involve collaboration with the African Union, regional economic communities, and international partners. The success of this initiative could set a precedent for future energy reforms across the continent.
For now, the focus remains on how Quintela’s leadership will shape Africa’s energy future. With Nigeria at the heart of the continent’s energy landscape, the coming year could mark a turning point in the pursuit of sustainable development and economic growth.
