President Bola Tinubu has called on African countries and global investors to significantly scale up investment in the energy sector, warning that sustainable development and long-term economic growth will remain out of reach without reliable and expanded energy infrastructure.
Tinubu made the call at the ninth International Energy Summit, where he was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima. He urged African governments to adopt policies that encourage innovation, regional cooperation and greater private-sector participation to meet the continent’s growing energy needs.
“Nigeria stands ready to collaborate with African nations, global partners and the private sector to deliver energy that is secure, affordable, cleaner and inclusive,” Tinubu said, adding that Africa must convert its vast natural resources into inclusive growth, local value addition and decent jobs for its young and expanding population.
The summit, themed “Energy for Peace, Peace and Prosperity: Securing Our Shared Future,” brought together policymakers, investors and industry experts to review progress, exchange ideas and mobilize funding to strengthen energy infrastructure and expand assets across the continent.
Speakers at the event noted that recent reforms in Nigeria’s energy sector are beginning to yield results, citing improved crude oil production levels and renewed investor confidence. They also highlighted Africa’s heavy reliance on fuel imports, estimated at about $120 billion in 2025, and stressed the need for regional markets and domestic refining capacity to reduce costs.
Discussions at the summit also focused on Africa’s drive toward financial autonomy in the energy sector, including plans related to the African Energy Bank and Nigeria’s role in supporting regional energy financing and development initiatives.
