NJ Ayuk Advocates for Africa’s Energy Independence at IEA-IEF-OPEC Symposium
February 24, 2025
By Adonis Byemelwa
NJ Ayuk emphasized that Africa must maximize hydrocarbon production to drive economic growth and reduce reliance on foreign aid.
Riyadh– Africa’s right to develop its energy resources took center stage at the 15th IEA-IEF-OPEC Symposium, where NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, made a compelling case for maximizing oil and gas production to combat energy poverty.
Speaking before global energy leaders in Riyadh recently, Ayuk challenged the prevailing narrative that Africa has "more than enough" energy resources, emphasizing that millions on the continent still lack reliable electricity.
"We cannot talk about energy transition while over 600 million Africans have no electricity and nearly 900 million still cook with biomass," Ayuk stated. "Africa must be allowed to develop its resources just as industrialized nations have done. We cannot afford to rely on foreign aid when we have the means to drive our economic growth."
Ayuk underscored that Africa’s energy future must be shaped by pragmatism, not external pressures. He argued that while renewable energy is important, oil and gas remain essential for industrialization, job creation, and long-term economic stability.
With global institutions pushing for rapid decarbonization, he warned against policies that neglect Africa’s immediate energy needs.
"Western nations continue to benefit from hydrocarbons, yet they impose restrictions on Africa," he said. "This is not just unfair—it is hypocritical. Energy security is a fundamental right, and Africa must be free to determine its path."
His remarks come amid increasing pressure on African nations to limit fossil fuel development in favor of renewables. However, Ayuk maintained that natural gas, in particular, offers a cleaner and more practical alternative to coal and biomass, both of which remain widely used across the continent.
"Natural gas can be Africa’s bridge to a sustainable future," he explained. "It reduces emissions compared to coal and biomass while ensuring stable energy supply for industries and households."
Global institutions must stop imposing unrealistic energy policies on Africa while enjoying the benefits of hydrocarbons themselves. Africa deserves the same opportunity to industrialize, grow its economies, and lift its people out of poverty, says NJ Ayuk
A recurring theme in Ayuk’s address was Africa’s over-reliance on foreign aid and imported energy solutions. He argued that an energy-independent Africa would be better positioned to create jobs, attract investment, and build a self-sustaining economy.
"For decades, Africa has been told what to do with its resources. It's time for us to take control of our destiny," he declared. "No nation has ever developed by depending on handouts. We need to produce, refine, and distribute our energy."
His message resonated with African policymakers and industry leaders in attendance, many of whom have voiced similar frustrations with global energy policies that often fail to consider Africa’s unique challenges.
Ayuk urged international stakeholders to adopt a more balanced approach toward Africa’s energy development. He stressed that a just energy transition must consider the continent’s current economic realities while allowing room for growth.
"We welcome renewables, but we must do so at our own pace," he said. "Let Africa decide what is best for Africa. Only then can we truly end energy poverty and build a prosperous future for our people."
As Africa continues to navigate the complexities of the global energy landscape, voices like Ayuk’s serve as a powerful reminder that the continent’s development should not be dictated by external forces. Instead, it must be driven by a vision that prioritizes economic empowerment, energy security, and self-reliance.
The event is Riyadh is part of a global offensive that the African Energy Chamber has embarked upon in recent weeks. With participation at similar high profile events in Suriname, Brazil, and Switzerland, the AEC has reinforced its role as the leading voice articulating African energy perspectives on the global scene.
In addition to the relentless advocacy, the Chamber is also shifting gears in preparation of its signature program , the African Energy Week which runs from September 29 to 03 October in Cape Town, South Africa.
