The Federal Government of Nigeria is pleased to announce the successful admission of Nigeria as an Association Country of the International Energy Agency (IEA), marking a historic milestone in the nation’s engagement with the global energy community and reinforcing its growing leadership in international energy governance.
The landmark decision was approved by the IEA Governing Board and formally communicated by the Executive Director of the International Energy Agency, Dr. Fatih Birol, who welcomed Nigeria into the IEA family. The Executive Director noted that Nigeria’s admission was the fastest accession process in the Agency’s 52-year history, reflecting the country’s strategic importance, demonstrated leadership, and credibility as a reliable global energy partner.
According to Dr. Birol, Nigeria’s admission recognizes the country’s increasingly important role in the evolving global energy landscape, particularly its contribution to global energy security during recent energy market disruptions and the growing significance of its energy sector. He further stated that the IEA Association framework will deepen cooperation through enhanced policy dialogue, technical collaboration, data exchange, and support for Nigeria’s priorities in energy access, affordability, sustainability, and energy security.
The Ministry notes that the International Energy Agency currently comprises 32 Member Countries and 13 Association Countries, representing approximately 75 per cent of global energy demand. Nigeria’s admission significantly strengthens its voice in shaping global energy policies while expanding opportunities for strategic cooperation with leading energy-producing and energy-consuming nations.
The Ministry also welcomes the planned visit of the Executive Director of the IEA to Abuja in the coming months to formally commemorate Nigeria’s admission and sign the first Joint Work Programme between Nigeria and the IEA, which will establish a comprehensive framework for future cooperation and replace the existing Memorandum of Understanding between both parties.
The Federal Government expresses its appreciation to the International Energy Agency, its Governing Board, and all partners whose support contributed to this important achievement. The Government also commends the efforts of the Embassy of Nigeria in Paris and all relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies whose coordinated engagement facilitated Nigeria’s successful admission into the Association framework.
Nigeria remains committed to promoting sustainable energy development, enhancing global energy security, accelerating the energy transition, and strengthening international partnerships that advance national development and contribute to global prosperity.
Signed:
Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, anipr
Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja
Thursday 9, July 2026
