ABUJA, Nigeria — Nigeria has been admitted as an Association Country of the International Energy Agency (IEA), marking a major milestone in its engagement with the global energy community and strengthening its role in international energy governance.
The admission, approved by the IEA Governing Board, was formally communicated by the Agency’s Executive Director, Dr Fatih Birol, who described Nigeria’s accession as the fastest in the organisation’s 52-year history.
Details of the development were contained in a statement issued by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Birol said Nigeria’s inclusion reflects its strategic importance and growing influence in the global energy landscape, particularly its contributions to energy security during recent market disruptions.
“Nigeria’s admission recognises its demonstrated leadership and credibility as a reliable global energy partner,” he said.
He added that the Association framework would deepen cooperation between Nigeria and the IEA through enhanced policy dialogue, technical collaboration, data exchange, and support for national priorities in energy access, affordability, sustainability and security.
The Ministry noted that the IEA comprises 32 member countries and 13 association countries, collectively accounting for about 75 per cent of global energy demand.
It said Nigeria’s admission would strengthen its voice in shaping global energy policies while expanding opportunities for strategic collaboration with major energy-producing and consuming nations.
The Federal Government also welcomed the planned visit of the IEA Executive Director to Abuja in the coming months to formally commemorate Nigeria’s admission and sign a Joint Work Programme that will define the framework for future cooperation.
The programme is expected to replace the existing Memorandum of Understanding between Nigeria and the Agency.
The government expressed appreciation to the IEA Governing Board, the Nigerian Embassy in Paris, and relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies for their roles in securing the country’s admission.
It reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy development, strengthening global energy security, and accelerating the transition to cleaner energy systems.
