Nigeria backs strong policy framework for energy transition — Adelabu
Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to a robust policy-driven approach to energy transition, stating that no transformation in the sector can succeed without a clear, coherent regulatory framework.
Speaking at the 2025 Africa Energy Forum in Cape Town, South Africa, Adelabu presented Nigeria’s recently approved National Integrated Electricity Policy as a comprehensive blueprint aimed at harmonising power generation, transmission, and distribution, while balancing the development of gas and renewable energy sources.
In a closed-door Ministerial Roundtable, the Minister shared Nigeria’s approach to aligning regulatory, financial, and policy structures in order to improve operational efficiency and attract critical infrastructure investment.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Power, the session convened public and private sector leaders to accelerate project implementation and integrate private sector capabilities with national energy objectives.
During a panel discussion on energy transition, Adelabu underscored Nigeria’s pragmatic stance, committed to decarbonisation while leveraging the country's significant hydrocarbon reserves to safeguard both energy and economic security. This approach aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s broader development agenda.
He outlined key investment priorities including modernising the national electricity grid, expanding renewable energy deployment, and rolling out decentralised energy systems such as mini-grids and solar home solutions.
“Nigeria is open for business across the entire energy spectrum, from hydrocarbons to clean energy,” Adelabu declared, inviting international investors to explore opportunities within the country's evolving energy sector.
On the sidelines of the forum, the Minister held several high-level bilateral meetings, including talks with South Africa’s Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa. The discussions focused on strengthening regional energy cooperation, promoting a unified African position on global energy platforms such as the G20, and pursuing grid integration and public-private financing mechanisms.
Additional meetings explored expanded collaboration with the United Kingdom, extended electrification initiatives with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), potential trade partnerships with Canada, and ongoing discussions with Siemens Energy on grid upgrades.
Through these strategic engagements, Adelabu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable energy future.
“Our goal is clear, energy access, sustainability, and prosperity for Nigeria and the continent,” he said, concluding a series of impactful deliberations at the forum.