Profile of NJ AYUK

NJ Ayuk, a prominent legal expert in the energy sector and a staunch advocate for African entrepreneurs, is widely acknowledged as one of the leading figures in the realm of African business today. As a Global Shaper associated with the World Economic Forum, he was recognised as one of Forbes’ Top 10 Most Influential Men in Africa back in 2015. Moreover, NJ is a well-known dealmaker specializing in the petroleum and power industries. He has dedicated his professional journey to aiding indigenous entrepreneurs in achieving success and has nurtured the careers of young African lawyers.

NJ Ayuk has a few mentors himself, the late and great Secretary General of OPEC, Mohammed Barkindo, was one of them. His relationships span various continents, but his stronghold, influence and his heart are strongest in Africa.

In his capacity as the founder and CEO of Centurion Law Group, NJ is committed to ensuring that business, particularly in the oil and gas sector, has a positive impact on African societies and fosters the development of local content. Currently serving as the chairman of the African Energy Chamber, he is also the author of the book ‘Big Barrels: African Oil and Gas and the Quest for Prosperity’.

In The Qonversation, NJ Ayuk explained “wealthy nations need to decarbonise. African nations need to industrialise and that industrialisation is only going to happen with them using their oil, natural gas and a vast investment in renewables. That is when you start talking about a just transition”.

NJ Ayuk holds a degree from the University of Maryland College Park, a Juris Doctor from William Mitchell College of Law, and an MBA from the New York Institute of Technology.