Ahead of the 29th Conference of the Parties more commonly known as COP29, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Nigeria’s Oil Minister, has said Africa will not be rushed into making a hasty energy transition to cleaner energy.
He said the continent’s priorities remain energy security, energy reduction, and promoting industrialization, amongst others.
The minister who stated this in a statement on Friday said Africa remains committed to tackling its foundational issues as a prerequisite to any large-scale energy transition.
While urging the COP29 to recognize the priorities of Africa, Lokpobiri added that the continent’s approach to energy transition must first address the critical issues of energy security, reducing poverty, and promoting industrialization.
The statement partly read: “Looking ahead to the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29), we highlighted the necessity for COP29 to consider Africa’s unique needs, specifically in balancing energy security, poverty reduction, and industrialization alongside the transition to cleaner energy.
“Africa remains committed to tackling these foundational issues as a prerequisite to any large-scale energy transition, ensuring our approach remains both practical and impactful.
“However, it is essential that COP29 recognizes Africa’s priorities, especially around ensuring energy security, reducing poverty, and promoting industrialization alongside cleaner energy goals.
“While we agreed that Africa’s approach to energy transition must first address these critical issues, this balanced commitment is crucial for achieving a greener, more resilient future aligned with Africa’s developmental aspirations.”
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