- Consistent energy policies will accelerate Nigeria’s clean energy transition and attract long-term investment.
- Collaboration across government, industry, and innovation is vital for sustainable energy growth.
Nigeria’s energy transition relies on policy consistency, innovation, and coordinated action among key stakeholders. This was the central message from Dr Uchechukwu Ogah, President of Masters Energy Group and former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, during the NAEC Energy Conference 2025.
According to him, policy consistency forms the backbone of a balanced and resilient energy future. He explained that while the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 and the Electricity Act 2023 created strong foundations, real progress depends on steady implementation and joint effort across sectors.
Dr Ogah stated that Nigeria must pursue reforms that balance environmental protection with economic growth. He noted that oil and gas will remain vital, contributing nearly 70 percent of export earnings and supporting millions of jobs. However, he argued that gas commercialisation projects such as the Utorogu Gas Processing Facility can bridge the gap between fossil fuels and renewable energy.
He warned that oil theft, insecurity, and low investment could undermine reform progress. Therefore, he urged the government to strengthen transparency, improve infrastructure, and create investor-friendly policies.
Dr Ogah described the global energy transition as this century’s most significant economic opportunity. He encouraged Nigeria to exceed its 30 per cent renewable capacity target by 2030 to avoid reliance on imported clean technologies. “We must not be consumers of the green economy; we must be creators within it,” he declared.
He also proposed establishing a National Energy Transition Academy to build skilled professionals and reduce dependence on foreign expertise. In addition, he identified large-scale solar farms, blue hydrogen projects, and mineral exploration as critical drivers of industrial diversification.
Furthermore, he pointed out that inconsistent policies, insecurity, and a shortage of technical skills still threaten progress. He recommended a single-window licensing process and an upgraded national grid to build confidence and ensure efficient energy delivery.
Dr Ogah concluded that energy reform is a shared national goal. Aligning government policies with private investment and community participation, he said, would ensure a just and sustainable energy future for Nigeria.