Nigerian President H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Vice President, H.E. Kashim Shettima during the formal inauguration of NIES 2026, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to spearheading Africa’s energy transition and security through broad stakeholder collaboration and continental integration.

The official opening ceremony of NIES 2026 today Tuesday 3rd February 2026 at the State House Banquet Hall was graced by His Excellency Adama Barrow, the President of the Republic of Gambia, and H.E. Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, President of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, who sent a representative.

The Heads of State, in their presidential addresses, all stressed the importance of securing long term energy access and availability for the growing African demand.

The Summit also convened ministers, regulators, and energy leaders, underscoring Nigeria’s growing stature in international energy diplomacy. NIES 2026 continues to position Africa as a central player in the global energy mix and future.