The Governing Board of the International Energy Agency has unanimously agreed for Nigeria to join the IEA as an Association country, deepening the Agency’s co-operation with Africa’s most populous nation, and described by the IEA as a major advance for global energy governance.
With a population of over 240 million, and containing one of Africa’s largest economies, Nigeria is a major producer of oil and natural gas and is one of the continent’s most active renewable energy markets. At the same time, it faces significant energy challenges, including expanding access to reliable and affordable energy services for millions of people who currently lack electricity and clean cooking solutions.
“Nigeria’s becoming part of the world’s energy authority marks a milestone for global energy governance” said IEA executive director Fatih Birol. “As Nigeria works to strengthen energy security, support economic growth and expand energy access, deeper co-operation with the IEA will bring important benefits for both sides. We look forward to building on our already strong partnership and welcoming Nigeria to the IEA.”Nigeria’s growing role in international energy markets has been highlighted by recent developments in its refining sector. During recent periods of market disruption, increased fuel exports from Nigeria helped strengthen resilience in African and international fuel markets. The country has also emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing markets for decentralised solar solutions and is stepping up efforts to expand access to electricity and clean cooking.
As an Association country, Nigeria will work more closely with the IEA across a wide range of energy issues, including on the Agency’s engagement in sub-Saharan Africa. Created in 2015, the IEA Association programme allows the Agency to deepen ties with its partner countries, bringing together major energy-producing and consuming countries from around the world. Nigeria joins a network of 13 other Association countries that work with the IEA to advance secure, affordable and sustainable energy systems worldwide. As a result of this expansion, the IEA Family’s share of global energy demand has increased from 40% in 2015 to over 80% today.
