Nigeria joins International Energy Agency as Association country

Nigeria has been admitted as an Association country of the International Energy Agency (IEA), marking a significant milestone in the country’s engagement with global energy institutions and strengthening its role in international energy governance.

The decision was unanimously approved by the IEA Governing Board, which formally welcomed Nigeria into the organisation’s network of partner countries.

Announcing the development, IEA Executive Director, Dr Fatih Birol, described Nigeria’s admission as a major step forward for both the country and the global energy sector.

According to Birol, Nigeria completed the accession process in record time, making it the fastest admission in the agency’s 52-year history. He said the achievement reflects the country’s growing influence in the global energy landscape and its reputation as a dependable energy partner.

The IEA chief noted that Nigeria’s membership acknowledges its strategic role in supporting global energy security, particularly during periods of volatility in international energy markets.

He added that the association framework would provide a platform for deeper collaboration between Nigeria and the agency through policy engagement, technical cooperation, data sharing and capacity development initiatives.

Birol explained that the partnership would also support Nigeria’s efforts to address key energy challenges, including expanding access to electricity, improving affordability, strengthening energy security and advancing sustainable energy development.

“I am thrilled that Nigeria is joining the IEA. It is Africa’s most populous country and a major player in the international energy sector,” he said.

He further described Nigeria’s admission as an important milestone for global energy governance and expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, for their confidence in the agency.

The IEA, headquartered in Paris, serves as a leading international body for energy policy coordination, market analysis and energy security. Nigeria’s admission as an Association country is expected to enhance its participation in global energy discussions and provide greater access to international expertise and best practices in the sector.