Abuja Hosts Landmark Book Launch on Energy Transition as Stakeholders Call for Scalable Solutions
Abuja, Nigeria — April 24, 2026
Leading voices in Nigeria’s energy sector converged in Abuja for the launch of “Financing the Energy Transition in Africa: Interconnected Mini-Grids and Sustainable Development in Nigeria,” a new book by Dr. Cheryl U. Ikejiaku.
The event not only spotlighted innovative pathways for addressing Africa’s energy deficit but also coincided with the author’s 50th birthday celebration, making it a moment of both professional and personal significance.
In her remarks to journalists, Dr. Ikejiaku stressed that the challenge of poor energy access cuts across all sectors of society and requires a collective response.
“Energy poverty affects every Nigerian. Whether you are a policymaker, investor, energy promoter, generator, or end user, each of us is a catalyst for change. We must work together to ensure that energy is affordable and accessible to all Nigerians and across Africa,” she said.
The book examines financing frameworks and policy strategies for scaling interconnected mini-grid systems, which are increasingly seen as a viable solution for powering underserved and rural communities while advancing sustainable development goals.
The event attracted key stakeholders, including representatives of the Rural Electrification Agency and the Head legal service nnanna o. South East Development Commission. Also in attendance was energy sector stakeholder Alex Obiochina, among others.
Representing the Managing Director/CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, the agency’s Director of Legal Services ibrahim kashim ESQ described the publication as timely and impactful, noting that Nigeria already has the technological capacity to transform its energy landscape.
“Technology is not our problem—we have what it takes to deliver. The real challenge lies in scaling these solutions effectively. This book serves as a practical blueprint.
The Managing Director has directed that we support this initiative fully. The REA will collaborate with the author and ensure that the ideas presented are shared with relevant federal government agencies for implementation,” he said.
He further emphasized that stronger coordination, policy alignment, and stakeholder commitment are critical to unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s energy sector.
Participants at the launch agreed that interconnected mini-grids represent a strategic pathway for bridging the energy access gap, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas. They called for increased investment, regulatory support, and public-private partnerships to accelerate deployment across the country.
The event concluded with renewed optimism that the insights from Dr. Ikejiaku’s work will influence policy direction and drive actionable change, positioning Nigeria—and Africa at large—on a more sustainable and inclusive energy future.
