The Electricity Hub

The most important investment event for the renewable electrification sector, hashtag#EAIF2026, is coming to Nairobi, Kenya, on 21-24 April! Register now to experience dynamic sessions, a vibrant exhibition, C&I Day and exclusive networking opportunities. Visit the link below for more information. eaif.energy

Cecilia Aqua Umoren is a lawyer, energy executive, and pioneering advocate for women’s leadership in the oil and gas industry. With over four decades of experience spanning law, corporate governance, and energy operations, she has played a pivotal role in fostering indigenous participation in Nigeria’s petroleum sector. She holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, a BL from the Nigerian Law School, and a Master’s in Comparative Law from Southern Methodist University, Dallas, USA. She is also an alumna of the Harvard Business School Women’s Leadership Forum. Cecilia began her career in legal practice, founding Cecilia Okafo & Associates (now Sapphire Partners), where she represented international and local clients on corporate, regulatory, and policy matters. She was among Nigeria’s first telecommunications lawyers, serving as external solicitor to NITEL and company secretary for Mobile Telephone System (MTS). In 2001, she joined Emerald Energy Resources Limited, where she rose to Executive Director of Corporate and Legal Services. In 2015, she became the Managing Director/CEO of Millennium Oil and Gas Company Limited, and in 2023, she was appointed its Executive Chairman. She also serves on the boards of Waltersmith Petroman Oil Limited and Trennco Power Limited, is the Vice Chairman of the Petroleum Club of Lagos and the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Women in Energy Network. Her leadership combines legal acumen, operational excellence, and a passion for mentoring women in the business and energy sectors. Cecilia’s career embodies resilience, excellence, and commitment to building sustainable, inclusive growth in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. Join TEH as we celebrate our Woman Icon of the Week.

Electricity starts at a power plant, where sources like water, gas, sunlight, or wind are converted into electrical energy using turbines, solar panels, or generators. Engineers then increase the voltage using step-up transformers so electricity can travel long distances efficiently through high-voltage transmission lines that form the national grid. Because this stage carries large amounts of power, faults in transmission infrastructure can disrupt supply across wide areas and cause major blackouts. As electricity nears homes and businesses, substations reduce the voltage and feed it into distribution networks. Local transformers lower it further before it enters buildings. Swipe to see more on how electricity travels from generation to your home.

The Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) is trapped in a cycle of mismanaged projects, misplaced priorities, and systemic inefficiencies, despite decades of investment and policy interventions. According to Báyọ̀dé Akọ́mọláfé, P. Eng., PMP®, in his opinion piece, " NESI at a Crossroad: Trapped in a Whirlpool of Interventions" rather than chasing high-tech, high-cost solutions like AI-driven systems, virtual power plants, or hydrogen generation, the NESI urgently needs to focus on foundational improvements and incremental, value-driven reforms across the value chain. Bayode noted, "Nigeria’s electricity crisis is not complex. Beyond time and execution, at the current state of electricity in Nigeria, the only three things needed are better billing, stronger collection, and optimisation of existing capacity. Not additional capacity, new plant announcement, new “one thing one thing” transmission project, at least not for now. The inability to focus on these three points is the missing foundation for NESI development." Click this link below to read the full article: theelectricityhub.com/nesi-at-a-cros…

Dr. Yinka Opeke is an energy entrepreneur, sustainability advocate, and business leader passionate about advancing clean energy access and empowering communities across Nigeria. She has over 15 years of experience spanning project management, entrepreneurship, and energy innovation. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Geography and a Master’s in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) from the University of Ibadan, a Master’s in Project Management from Queen Mary University of London, and a Doctorate in Entrepreneurship and Organisational Leadership from Walden University, USA. As Founder and CEO of Smart Energies, Yinka leads one of Nigeria’s pioneering clean energy companies, driving inclusive access to LPG and renewable solutions through technology, innovation, and community partnerships. Her work has expanded safe cooking initiatives, reduced carbon emissions, and empowered women-led enterprises in underserved areas. Yinka’s leadership reflects a commitment to building a sustainable energy ecosystem driven by inclusion and innovation. She is a vocal advocate for gender equality in the energy space and continues to mentor young women pursuing careers in science, energy, and entrepreneurship. 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗘𝗛 𝗮𝘀 𝘄𝗲 𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗜𝗰𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸.

Dr Yinka Opeke is an energy entrepreneur, sustainability advocate, and business leader passionate about advancing clean energy access and empowering communities across Nigeria. She has over 15 years of experience spanning project management, entrepreneurship, and energy innovation. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Geography and a Master’s in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) from the University of Ibadan, a Master’s in Project Management from Queen Mary University of London, and a Doctorate in Entrepreneurship and Organisational Leadership from Walden University, USA. As Founder and CEO of Smart Energies, Yinka leads one of Nigeria’s pioneering clean energy companies, driving inclusive access to LPG and renewable solutions through technology, innovation, and community partnerships. Her work has expanded safe cooking initiatives, reduced carbon emissions, and empowered women-led enterprises in underserved areas. Yinka’s leadership reflects a commitment to building a sustainable energy ecosystem driven by inclusion and innovation. She is a vocal advocate for gender equality in the energy space and continues to mentor young women pursuing careers in science, energy, and entrepreneurship. 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗘𝗛 𝗮𝘀 𝘄𝗲 𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗜𝗰𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸.

The Electricity Hub is pleased to announce its role as an official Media Partner for the 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺 (𝗘𝗔𝗜𝗙) 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲. The Energy Access Investment Forum 2026 is a leading global platform focused on accelerating investment and partnerships in renewable energy and energy access. Organised by the Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE), the forum will take place from 𝟮𝟭–𝟮𝟰 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 in Nairobi, bringing together over 1,000 stakeholders including investors, policymakers, developers, utilities, and technology providers. The event is designed to drive collaboration around decentralised renewable energy solutions such as mini-grids and solar home systems, particularly for underserved and off-grid communities. EAIF 2026 serves as both a high-level conference and a deal-making platform, featuring expert-led sessions, an innovation exhibition, and structured B2B matchmaking opportunities. It plays a strategic role in mobilising capital for clean energy projects, strengthening public-private partnerships, and advancing global energy transition goals. By connecting project developers with financiers and decision-makers, the forum continues to position itself as a key marketplace for bankable energy access solutions across Africa and other emerging markets. As a media partner, The Electricity Hub will provide strategic media coverage and amplify key discussions emerging from the ARE Energy Access Investment Forum 2026. This partnership reinforces The Electricity Hub’s commitment to strengthening energy access discourse and supporting engagement among industry leaders, policymakers, and investors driving clean energy development across Africa and other emerging markets.

This Easter, we reflect on renewal, hope, and the power of transformation, values that resonate deeply with the future of Africa’s electricity sector. As we continue to convene bold conversations and drive meaningful collaboration, we remain committed to powering progress and unlocking sustainable energy solutions across the continent. Happy Easter, from all of us at The Electricity Hub

Thank you for being a part of The Electricity Hub’s 116th Power Dialogue on “𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆: 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗚𝗮𝗽𝘀” Your engagement and contributions helped shape a truly insightful and impactful conversation. The dialogue emphasised how energy costs directly impact productivity and household income, the role of off-grid and hybrid energy solutions in bringing supply gaps, and the critical need for improved regulatory coordination and implementation. Panellists highlighted the importance of data-driven decision-making, investment in transmission and distribution infrastructure, and strategic policy continuity to create a more resilient energy sector. We deeply appreciate your time and commitment to advancing meaningful conversations around energy, productivity, and sustainable solutions. Conversations like these are critical in bridging gaps between policy, practice, and innovation, and your involvement plays an essential role in moving the sector forward. As we continue to drive these engagements, we look forward to your continued participation in future dialogues as we collectively explore solutions and pathways towards a more resilient, affordable, and sustainable power sector in Nigeria. 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: youtube.com/live/xgI60ffys… 𝗦𝗲𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲: theelectricityhub.com/116th-power-di…

Funmi Ogbue is a seasoned energy executive, management consultant, and champion of gender inclusion, with over three decades of experience in oil and gas and human resources management. Her career reflects a deep commitment to advancing indigenous participation and leadership in Nigeria’s energy sector. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Lagos and a Master’s in Organisational Change and Development from the University of Manchester. Funmi's career spans Abacan Resource Corp., CNOOC, Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), and Ancorapoint. She also held senior positions at Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company, British American Tobacco and Jake Riley. As Managing Director of Zigma Limited, she leads operations across engineering, procurement, and construction services, driving efficiency and innovation in the energy value chain. She is also the President and Co-Founder of the Women in Energy Network (WIEN), an organisation empowering women professionals and entrepreneurs across the energy sector. Through her leadership, Funmi continues to promote inclusion, mentorship, and sustainable business practices in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. Her story embodies strength, vision, and dedication to building a more equitable and resilient energy future. Join The Electricity Hub as we celebrate our Woman Icon of the Week.

Speaking on liquidity issues in the sector, Basil Abia highlighted how “Consumers often do not pay for electricity (due to estimated billing and lack of access to pipelines), leading to high ATC&C (Aggregate Technical, Commercial, and Collection) losses—over 50%. These losses cascade: DisCos struggle to pay GenCos, GenCos struggle to pay gas suppliers, and suppliers face illiquidity, especially amid high international gas prices and geopolitical tensions.” 𝟭𝟭𝟲𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘂𝗲 𝗧𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗰: Power & Productivity: How Energy Cost Exposes Power Sector Gaps Join the conversation here: youtube.com/live/xgI60ffys…

Nigeria does not lack regulation. We have the Electricity Act, multiple guidelines, and evolving state-level frameworks. The real issue is implementation and enforcement. - Achenyo Alfa LLB. BL. MBA 𝟭𝟭𝟲𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘂𝗲 𝗧𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗰: Power & Productivity: How Energy Cost Exposes Power Sector Gaps Join here: us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regist…

𝟭𝟭𝟲𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘂𝗲 𝗧𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗰: Power & Productivity: How Energy Cost Exposes Power Sector Gaps Speaking on regulatory frameworks and energy access, David Arinze said: “As we think about upgrading the sector, the critical question becomes: what models can we adopt that both reduce costs and improve system-wide efficiency? That is where innovation, collaboration, and policy alignment must intersect.” Join here: us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regist…

The Electricity Hub invites you to join the 116th Power Dialogue: “𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆: 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 𝗖𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗚𝗮𝗽𝘀.” The webinar will examine the impact of rising electricity and fuel costs on businesses and households in Nigeria, highlighting how inefficiencies in power generation, transmission, and distribution continue to constrain productivity and economic growth. Experts and policymakers will discuss practical strategies to address these challenges, including strengthening domestic refining, reducing reliance on imported fuels, and accelerating the adoption of renewable energy. The session will also explore ways to improve power reliability and reduce the overall cost of energy for businesses and households. This is an opportunity to engage directly with industry leaders, ask questions, and gain actionable insights to navigate the current energy landscape. 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀. 𝗧𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗰: Power & Productivity: How Energy Cost Exposes Power Sector Gaps 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲: 5:30 p.m. (WAT) 𝗩𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗲: Zoom Join us and be part of the conversation on closing Nigeria’s power sector gaps. Click the link below to register and join the conversation: us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regist…

𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗲𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁: David Arinze is a seasoned renewable energy expert with nearly a decade of experience in financing and deploying innovative solutions across Power Generation, Transmission, Distribution, and Off-Grid Energy. He holds a patent for the design of solar-powered electric vehicles aimed at enhancing E-mobility. David’s multinational experience spans policy design and clean energy project implementation, focusing on providing energy access to underserved markets. Currently, he is the Lead of the Renewable Energy Thematic Working Group at the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG). Prior to his role at NESG, he led Nigeria's United States African Development Foundation (USADF) Off-Grid Energy portfolio as the Program Officer through USADF's implementing partner, Diamond Development Initiatives (DDI). Additionally, David serves as an Advisor on the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Global Sustainable Energy Governance team and is a Financing and Deploying Clean Energy (FDCE) Program Scholar at Yale University. Throughout his career, David has spearheaded the design, development, and implementation of over 200 donor-funded renewable energy projects, including solar mini-grids, solar home systems, clean cooking solutions, Solar PV and inverter manufacturing, biogas, and energy-health-agriculture nexus projects. His contributions have established him as a leading voice and policy and research contributor in Africa's renewable energy sector, earning him recognition on global platforms such as CNN, BBC, Al Jazeera Media Network, and @United Nations TV. 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀. 𝗧𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗰: Power & Productivity: How Energy Cost Exposes Power Sector Gaps 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲: 5:30 p.m. (WAT) 𝗩𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗲: Zoom Click the link below to register and join the conversation: us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regis

Basil Abia, Co-founder and Chief Research Officer of Truva Intelligence, a data intelligence, research, and advisory company based in Nigeria. In addition, he is a research and policy consultant supporting think tanks, startups, and senior public offices in Nigeria. Basil also offers his analysis on international news platforms, including Chinese Global Television Network (CGTN, formerly CCTV), Turkish Radio and Television Corporation (TRT), RT International, Channels Television, ARISE News, and News Central TV. He currently serves on the advisory board of Learn Politics Nigeria and the leadership board of the Emerging Leaders Program. 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀. 𝗧𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗰: Power & Productivity: How Energy Cost Exposes Power Sector Gaps 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲: 5:30 p.m. (WAT) 𝗩𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗲: Zoom Click the link below to register and join the conversation: us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regis

𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁: Sokoyebom Alabi is an Energy Research and Policy Consultant at Nextier, where she conducts research and develops policy recommendations that support energy sector reforms and investment decisions across Africa. She played a pivotal role in drafting the Strategic Implementation Plan for the National Integrated Electricity Policy (NIEP) and was among the top 20 performers from 18 countries in the Open Africa Power 2022 program. With over eight years of experience in the power sector, her expertise spans power distribution, energy access, and solar photovoltaic systems, with hands-on experience in operations, maintenance, and performance optimization of both grid-scale distribution and decentralized renewable energy, creating a rare blend of technical grit and strategic foresight in the energy sector. Prior to her current role, Sokoyebom worked with Westa Solar and Ikeja Electric, where she improved power reliability, reduced technical losses, and expanded energy access to thousands of customers. She holds a Master’s degree in Energy Technology and Management from the University of Ibadan and a first degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Covenant University. Sokoyebom is a registered engineer, and she balances her rigorous professional life with a passion for teaching and a talent for handicrafts. 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀. 𝗧𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗰: Power & Productivity: How Energy Cost Exposes Power Sector Gaps 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲: 5:30 p.m. (WAT) 𝗩𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗲: Zoom Click the link below to register and join the conversation: us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regis

Reliable and affordable electricity is a cornerstone of economic growth, industrialisation, and improved quality of life. However, in Nigeria, persistent power shortages and high energy costs continue to constrain productivity across sectors. The situation has been further complicated by recent global developments, particularly the 2026 Iran war, which has triggered sharp increases in crude oil prices, with prices rising above $100 per barrel and, in some projections, potentially reaching $150–$200 if disruptions persist. This conflict has disrupted key oil supply routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant share of global oil flows, leading to supply shocks and heightened price volatility. For Nigeria, as a major oil exporter, higher prices can boost government revenue and foreign exchange earnings. However, due to structural inefficiencies, especially dependence on imported refined petroleum, these same price increases translate into higher domestic fuel and electricity costs. This contradiction exposes deep-rooted gaps in Nigeria’s power and energy sector. The escalation of global oil prices driven by geopolitical conflicts has intensified existing weaknesses in Nigeria’s power sector. Key challenges include: ·  Rising petrol and diesel prices (with reports of prices exceeding ₦1,000 per litre) ·  Increased cost of self-generation for businesses reliant on generators ·  Inflationary pressures driven by energy cost pass-through ·  Continued inefficiencies in electricity generation, transmission, and distribution. While global oil price increases should benefit Nigeria economically, the country’s reliance on fossil fuel imports and weak power infrastructure means businesses and households face higher costs rather than gains. 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀. 𝗧𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗰: Power & Productivity: How Energy Cost Exposes Power Sector Gaps 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲: 5:30 p.m. (WAT) 𝗩𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗲: Zoom Click the link below to register and join the conversation: us02web.zoom.us/webinar/regis

Charlotte ESSIET (Engr) is a mechanical engineer, regulatory affairs specialist, and indigenous energy-tech pioneer with over 20 years of experience across oil & gas, business strategy, project management, supply chain, and technology innovation. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Lagos State University, an MBA in Engineering Business Management from Manchester Business School, UK, an Executive Certificate in Strategic Business Management from Stanford University Graduate School of Business, and an Executive Certificate in Transformational Leadership and Corporate Governance from the London School of Economics and Political Science. Charlotte began her career as a pipeline/process engineer in the Niger Delta region before transitioning into business development and account management roles with global oil service firms, including Baker Hughes and Halliburton. Throughout her career, she has led cross-functional and multidisciplinary teams in Nigeria, the UK, and the Middle East, transitioning into roles in regulatory affairs, corporate affairs, and technology deployment. In her previous role at AOS Orwell Limited, Charlotte oversaw government relations, regulatory compliance, and strategy for indigenous oil & gas service operations, while also engaging with policymakers to advance local content development. She is also active in championing women in STEM in Nigeria, and she is a Board Member of the Women In Energy Network. Her journey from pipeline engineer to corporate affairs leader and technology-driven role model reflects her commitment to bridging engineering, business strategy, and regulation in Nigeria’s energy sector. Join The Electricity Hub as we celebrate our Woman Icon of the Week.