- Nigeria’s call for global investment in energy poverty showcases its leadership in Africa’s sustainable energy transformation.
- Through greater global investment in energy poverty solutions, the nation aims to boost inclusive growth and long-term energy security.
Nigeria has made a strong appeal for global investment to end energy poverty across Africa. The country urged international partners to co-finance energy projects that promote shared prosperity and sustainable development.
The call came from Bashir Bayo Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd., during the opening session of the 2025 Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC), one of the world’s leading energy events.
Speaking at a high-level panel discussion, Ojulari stressed the urgent need for joint investment to close Africa’s energy access gap. He explained that Africa’s energy future depends on partnerships that bring together global finance, technology, and expertise. Nigeria, he added, remains committed to leading this change through a balanced focus on oil, gas, and renewable energy.
The event, themed “Energy. Intelligence. Impact.”, gave NNPC a platform to highlight its expanding projects in gas and renewables. The company reaffirmed its pledge to promote regional energy equity while driving clean and sustainable investment across the continent.
However, Nigeria still faces daunting challenges. According to the World Bank, nearly 90 million citizens, about 45% of the population, lack access to electricity. To address this, NNPC’s strategic roadmap aims to secure $60 billion in oil and gas investment by 2030. These funds will support refinery upgrades, gas network expansion, and diversification of exports.
At ADIPEC, Ojulari pointed to partnerships with TotalEnergies and the Nigeria–Morocco Gas Pipeline as key milestones for regional integration. Nigeria’s renewable energy agenda also continues to grow, supported by the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN) and international agencies.
Meanwhile, research by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) shows that scaling up solar, hydro, and biomass solutions could create millions of jobs and strengthen climate action. Yet, the International Energy Agency (IEA) warns that Africa’s energy transition faces financial barriers, including high borrowing costs that discourage private investors.
Experts, therefore, call for blended finance mechanisms and initiatives such as the Bridgetown Initiative to attract more private-sector capital. As ADIPEC 2025 continues, Nigeria’s appeal marks a turning point for Africa’s energy future.
With the continent needing over $90 billion in annual energy investment by 2030, the challenge is immense, but achievable. Ojulari concluded that global collaboration can transform Africa’s energy landscape, reduce inequality, and build lasting prosperity.