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By Adewale Sanyaolu
The Federal Government has announced decisive actions aimed at eliminating obstacles to affordable energy access for Nigerians, with a wider vision to benefit the entire African continent.
This was disclosed by Mr. Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), in his address at Africa House, Davos, Switzerland, during the World Economic Forum themed: “Accelerating Africa’s Energy Transition and Leapfrogging from Scarcity to Abundance.”
Ekpo expressed confidence that the gathering symbolises the collective determination of Africa to secure a brighter and more sustainable future, a future where energy is abundant, accessible, and a driver of inclusive growth across the continent.
He maintained that Nigeria, under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is redefining its approach to energy development through a balanced mix of resources.
“Our Decade of Gas initiative underscores the critical role natural gas plays as a transition fuel, driving industrialization, improving access to clean energy, and reducing emissions. We have also launched significant projects like the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline Project, which not only strengthens regional collaboration but also provides sustainable energy solutions for global markets.”
Specifically, he mentioned that critical barriers such as financing, which remains one of the most pressing challenges, have been tackled with the establishment of the Africa Energy Bank.
According to him, the Africa Energy Bank is a groundbreaking initiative designed to bridge financing gaps in the continent’s oil and gas industry by providing innovative funding solutions and de-risking projects, ensuring that African energy projects receive the capital they need to thrive.
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The Minister added that technology transfer and capacity building are equally essential to ensure that African nations are not merely consumers but co-creators of the solutions that will power our future. “Africa is at a pivotal moment. As the world seeks solutions to the intertwined challenges of energy security, climate change, and economic inequality, our continent has an unprecedented opportunity to lead. Africa is blessed with vast natural resources, abundant natural gas reserves, rich renewable energy potential, and an increasingly innovative youthful population.
“Together, these assets position us uniquely to transition from energy scarcity to energy abundance while charting a sustainable and inclusive path.
“However, realizing this vision requires decisive actions and strategic partnerships. It calls for the alignment of policies, investments, and innovations that bridge the gaps between aspiration and implementation.
“Across Africa, we see similar initiatives gaining momentum. Countries are pioneering geothermal, solar, wind, and hydropower projects that set benchmarks for innovation and sustainability.
The Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement offers a framework to harmonize energy markets and facilitate cross-border collaboration, enhancing energy access for all Africans.”
“Today, I call on all stakeholders—governments, international organizations, the private sector, and civil society—to deepen their commitment to Africa’s energy transition. This is not just an African priority; it is a global imperative. Energy abundance in Africa will not only transform lives on our continent but will also provide stability and growth to the global economy.
“Let us work together to ensure that Africa’s energy journey is defined by innovation, equity, and resilience. Let us commit to accelerating this transition in a manner that lifts millions out of poverty, creates jobs, and safeguards the environment for future generations.
“The road ahead is demanding, but the destination is worth every effort. Africa stands ready to leapfrog into a future of energy abundance, powered by collaboration and guided by sustainability.”
