26/04/2026
Spotlight on Energy: NAEE President, Dr. Hassan Mahmud, Addresses Press Conference
Distinguished members of the press,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good afternoon, and thank you for joining us today.
It is my pleasure, as President of the Nigeria Association for Energy Economics, to formally announce our 2026 NAEE International Conference, scheduled to hold from April 26th to 28th, 2026, at the prestigious Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
This year’s conference is convened under the theme:
“Evolution of Energy Mix in Africa: The Role of Technology, Economics, and Public Policy.”
At a time of profound global energy transition, Africa stands at a defining crossroads.
Our continent is uniquely positioned—with vast hydrocarbon resources, immense renewable energy potential, and a rapidly growing population whose energy needs are both urgent and expanding. Yet, the pathway forward is not simply about replacing one energy source with another. It is about strategically evolving our energy mix—in a way that is pragmatic, inclusive, and development-oriented.
This conference will bring together leading policymakers, industry leaders, investors, academics, and development partners from across Africa and the world to address three central questions:
How do we balance energy security, affordability, and sustainability in African economies?
What role will emerging technologies—from renewables to energy storage and digital systems—play in shaping our future energy systems?
And critically, how can sound economic frameworks and public policy accelerate investment and ensure that the energy transition supports industrialization and job creation?
We will also confront some hard realities.
Africa contributes less than 4% of global carbon emissions, yet faces disproportionate pressure to decarbonize—often without adequate financing or technological support. The conversation must therefore shift from energy transition as a constraint to energy transition as an opportunity—an opportunity to unlock growth, build resilient systems, and lift millions out of energy poverty.
Over the course of the three-day conference, participants can expect:
High-level plenary sessions with global thought leaders
Technical discussions on energy markets, policy reforms, and investment strategies
Industry showcases innovation across the energy value chain
Strategic dialogues aimed at shaping actionable policy recommendations for African governments and institutions
Let me emphasize: this is not just another conference.
It is a platform for shaping Africa’s energy future—grounded in evidence, driven by collaboration, and focused on results.
We warmly invite local and international stakeholders, the private sector, development institutions, and the media to participate actively in this important dialogue.
Your role, particularly as members of the press, is critical in amplifying these conversations and ensuring that the outcomes resonate beyond this hall—to policymakers, investors, and citizens across Africa and the world.
In closing, let me reaffirm that the Nigeria Association for Energy Economics remains committed to advancing credible, data-driven, and policy-relevant discourse on energy and development.
We look forward to welcoming you all to Lagos from April 26th to 29th, 2026
Thank you.
Dr Hassan Mahmud
President of NAEE
