- The Trump administration backs Nigeria’s fossil fuel development, criticising Western energy policies as “colonial” and counterproductive to Africa’s growth.
- U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright emphasises Africa’s right to use its natural resources and rejects Western pressure to transition away from fossil fuels.
The Trump administration has endorsed Nigeria’s fossil fuel development, calling Western energy policies “nonsensical” and “colonial.”
At the 10th Powering Africa Summit held March 6-7 in Washington, U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright criticised restrictions on African energy growth. He stated, “Africa must decide its energy future without external interference.”
Nigeria, rich in oil and gas, struggles with underfunding due to global pressure against fossil fuels. Western nations push for a shift to renewable energy, limiting Nigeria’s investment opportunities.
Wright dismissed climate change as a top global issue, arguing, “Economic growth should take priority.” He emphasised, “Energy policies must expand human opportunities, not restrict them.”
Nigeria relies heavily on gas, which supplies 80% of its electricity. Despite this, investment has declined significantly.
American oil giants ExxonMobil and Chevron operate extensively in Nigeria and benefit from this policy shift. The Trump administration’s support could attract more investment into Nigeria’s energy sector.
Minister of State Petroleum (Oil) Heineken Lokpobiri insists that “Africa should exploit its resources without external pressure.” He argues that “Energy security is crucial for Nigeria’s economic growth.”
At the Nigeria International Energy Summit, officials reaffirmed their commitment to continued fossil fuel investment and rejected reliance on international aid for the energy transition.
African nations recently launched a $5 billion African Energy Bank to fund hydrocarbon development. This initiative aims to secure Africa’s energy independence and economic progress.
Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, emphasised, “Stronger U.S.-Africa collaboration for energy development is necessary.” He stressed, “We must tackle energy poverty and promote industrialisation.”
The Trump administration’s new stance reassures Nigeria as it seeks to maximise its 37 billion oil reserves. As global energy policies evolve, Nigeria remains determined to harness its resources and drive economic growth.