Nigeria Joins International Energy Agency, Boosting Global Energy Demand Representation

Nigeria's admission into the International Energy Agency (IEA) as an Association country has been hailed as a significant achievement by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo. This development marks a pivotal moment for Nigeria's engagement in global energy governance and its pursuit of universal energy access, industrialization, and sustainable energy development.

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I am elated by the decision of the IEA Members to officially welcome Nigeria to the IEA Family as an Association country.

Ekpo expressed his elation over the unanimous decision by the IEA Governing Board, viewing Nigeria's entry into the IEA Family as a testament to the country's rising importance in the international energy arena. "It is an honour for Nigeria to join this leading energy agency," Ekpo stated, encouraging other African nations to deepen their collaboration with the IEA to achieve shared development objectives.

The partnership is expected to provide Nigeria with invaluable access to global energy expertise, cutting-edge research, and crucial policy insights. This collaboration will bolster efforts in critical areas such as energy security, attracting investment, advancing gas development, expanding electricity access, and implementing sustainable energy solutions, ultimately fostering a more resilient and competitive energy sector.

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It is an honour for Nigeria to join this leading energy agency. I also encourage other African countries to deepen their engagement with the IEA as we work together to achieve key development goals, including universal energy access and industrialisation.

With Nigeria's inclusion, the IEA now accounts for over 80% of global energy demand, a substantial increase from 40% when the Association program began in 2015. IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol welcomed Nigeria, recognizing it as Africa's most populous nation and a major energy player, stating that its membership signifies an important step forward in global energy governance.

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I am thrilled that Nigeria is joining the IEA. It is Africa’s most populous country and a major international energy player. Nigeria becoming part of the world’s energy authority marks an important advance in global energy governance.