Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, has said Africa must address its energy poverty before fully embracing the global energy transition.
Persecondnews reports that Improving energy access is a critical component in the fight to tackle poverty, as highlighted by the UN’s seventh Sustainable Development Goal: Ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all by 2030.
Despite this, millions of people in sub-Saharan Africa lack access to electricity.
Also, in spite of improvements in global energy access, about 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa do not have access to electricity — nearly 80% of the world’s total.
Speaking at the Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC) 2025, Lokpobiri said energy access is crucial for the continent’s sustainable development.
Lokpobiri highlighted the importance of local content and sustainable practices in shaping Africa’s energy landscape.
He said: “Nigeria’s divestment program has empowered indigenous companies to take ownership of marginal fields and shallow water assets, boosting production capacity and creating opportunities for local businesses and communities.”
The minister called for a balanced approach to the global energy transition, emphasizing the need to optimize hydrocarbon resources while investing in renewables.
He also announced Nigeria’s leadership in establishing the African Energy Bank (AEB), aimed at providing tailored funding for the continent’s energy needs.
Lokpobiri urged African nations to unite in addressing energy poverty and advancing sustainable development.
He stressed the need for regional collaboration, investment in human capital, innovation, and transparency in governance.
“The time for talking has passed. Now is the time for action,” Lokpobiri declared.
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