Nigeria has become an Association country of the International Energy Agency, strengthening cooperation with the global energy body and expanding the organisation’s membership to cover more than 80 percent of global energy demand.
The decision was unanimously approved by the IEA Governing Board, marking a significant step in Nigeria’s engagement with international energy governance as the country seeks to improve energy security, expand access to electricity and accelerate economic development.
IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol described Nigeria’s admission as a milestone for global energy cooperation, noting the country’s strategic role as Africa’s most populous nation and a major producer of oil and natural gas.
He said deeper collaboration would support Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen energy security, promote economic growth and expand access to modern energy while enhancing cooperation between the country and the agency.
Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo welcomed the decision, describing it as an important opportunity to work more closely with the IEA on achieving universal energy access, industrialisation and sustainable development.
He also encouraged other African countries to deepen engagement with the agency to support the continent’s long-term energy goals.
Home to more than 240 million people, Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest economies and a leading producer of crude oil and natural gas. The country is also expanding its renewable energy sector, particularly decentralised solar power, as it seeks to improve electricity access and reduce energy poverty.
Despite its abundant energy resources, Nigeria continues to face significant challenges in providing reliable electricity and clean cooking solutions to millions of households.
The IEA noted that cooperation with Nigeria dates back to 2014 and has included a range of joint initiatives. In September 2025, the agency partnered with Nigeria’s Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the African Energy Commission to host a regional roundtable in Abuja focused on reducing methane emissions from the energy sector.
As an Association country, Nigeria will work more closely with the IEA on policies related to energy security, sustainability and development, joining 13 other partner nations participating in the agency’s Association programme.
