By Christie U. Omonigho
Energy Window International (Media) – The Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) has announced the confirmation of key African Heads of State for its 2026 convocation, reinforcing the Summit’s status as Africa’s most authoritative and impactful platform for energy dialogue, policy coordination, and investment mobilization.
Among the confirmed leaders are, His Excellency Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of The Gambia, and Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, President of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea. The Summit will be hosted by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who will also serve as Chief Host.
Dr. James Shindi, Chief Executive Officer, Brevity Anderson/Project Director, NIES said: “The confirmation of distinguished African Heads of State for NIES 2026 is a powerful affirmation of the Summit’s credibility, relevance, and growing global influence. NIES continues to serve as a trusted platform where leadership, policy, and investment converge to shape Africa’s energy future.” said Dr. James Shindi, Chief Executive Officer, Brevity Anderson/Project Director, NIES.
Now in its 9th edition, the Nigeria International Energy Summit is the only oil and gas industry event officially endorsed by the Federal Government of Nigeria, a distinction that underscores its strategic national importance and central role in shaping both Nigeria and Africa’s energy future.
NIES 2026 will also bring under one roof distinguished heads of delegation and senior government officials from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas, alongside leaders of international energy organizations; chief executives of global and indigenous energy companies; development finance institutions; and representatives of host communities. It is a broad-based participation which reflects the Summit’s commitment to inclusive, multi-stakeholder engagement across the global energy value chain.
The Summit will further acknowledge the critical role of its strategic partners, including international oil companies, national oil companies, global service providers, financial institutions, and multilateral development partners whose sustained engagement has been instrumental in positioning NIES as a premier platform for energy policy dialogue, investment facilitation, and cross-border collaboration in Africa.
Scheduled to hold in Abuja from 2 to 5 February 2026, the Summit has its theme as, “Energy for Peace and Prosperity: Securing Our Shared Future.” The event will advance bold ideas, forge strategic partnerships, and deliver practical, investable solutions to strengthen energy security, drive economic growth, and support sustainable development—across Africa and beyond.
Kunle Odusola-Stevenson, NIES Conference Producer said: “Our objective is clear: to translate ambition into action and ensure that energy remains a driver of stability, opportunity, and shared prosperity for Africa and beyond.”
The Nigeria International Energy Summit is an annual, high-level convening platform bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, investors, development partners, and host communities to shape Africa’s energy future through strategic dialogue, collaboration, and actionable outcomes.