- NJ Ayuk believes Donald Trump’s return to the White House in 2025 could usher in a transformative era for Africa’s fossil fuel sector.
- Ayuk urges African nations to seize opportunities in fossil fuels, highlighting the reapproval of a $4.7bn loan for Mozambique’s LNG project as an example.
NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (AEC), stated that the return of Donald Trump as U.S. President in 2025 marks a crucial moment for Africa’s fossil fuel industry.
In a statement, Ayuk underscored Trump’s swift reapproval of a $4.7bn loan from the U.S. Export-Import Bank for TotalEnergies’ liquefied natural gas (LNG) project in Mozambique as a key example of what could be a turning point for the continent’s energy sector.
The loan, which was initially approved during Trump’s first term in 2020 but was frozen under President Biden, signals a shift in U.S. policy towards a more energy-focused approach, prioritising fossil fuel projects over the green agenda.
Ayuk believes this is a significant signal of a renewed partnership between the U.S. and Africa that prioritises energy development. He argues that Africa must take advantage of this historical moment and align with Trump’s energy-first ethos. He emphasises that while renewable energy is essential, fossil fuels will continue to be the foundation for African industrialisation and economic growth.
“For too long, global pressures have pushed African nations to abandon fossil fuels in favour of green energy, but fossil fuels remain essential for Africa’s future,” Ayuk stated.
He encouraged African leaders to embrace fossil fuel projects, particularly in onshore oil, gas, and coal sectors, and to capitalise on opportunities in wildcat wells (exploratory drilling) and small operator ventures, which can diversify Africa’s energy portfolio and create jobs.
Ayuk also pointed to Trump’s plans to revive clean coal production in the U.S. as a potential model for Africa. Despite coal’s global criticism, Ayuk argued that it remains a cost-effective and abundant energy source. He believes African nations should not shy away from coal but should use it to address energy poverty while other energy infrastructures mature.
“Africa can utilise its coal reserves to meet domestic needs and export demands, especially with the U.S. now supportive of coal production,” Ayuk stated. He stressed that African leaders should embrace coal as part of a diverse energy mix, not fear U.S. opposition.
Ayuk urges Africa to unite under an ‘Africa First’ banner and adopt a “drill, baby, drill” mentality to accelerate oil and gas exploration. He highlighted Nigeria’s slow progress with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which was proposed in 2008 but only signed into law in 2021. Even after the law’s passage, Ayuk stated, Nigeria has struggled with implementation, discouraging investment and hampering development.
He believes that a Trump-inspired approach could eliminate bureaucratic barriers, boost investment, and stimulate the sector’s growth. In countries like Nigeria, he suggested that a “drill, baby, drill” mindset could address the Niger Delta’s security issues and encourage foreign investment from U.S. companies eager to work in a pro-energy environment.
Ayuk concluded that Trump’s second term could mark when Africa’s fossil fuel industry thrives, turning the continent into a partner for the U.S. in a vision of energy abundance. With clear skies ahead for the next four years, Ayuk believes Africa must act quickly to capitalise on this opportunity.
“The tools are all there: offshore rigs, onshore fields, wildcat wells, established mines, and a willing ally in Washington. The question is whether African leaders dare to stand up to the anti-carbon lobby and embrace this rare opportunity.”
Ayuk’s message is clear: Africa should build, mine, and drill as never before, seizing the moment before the chance slips away.