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Ekpo seeks Nigeria’s associate membership of International Energy Agency
Frank Okon
Nigeria has formally applied to join the International Energy Agency as an associate member, marking a significant step in the country’s effort to strengthen its role in global energy governance.
The development was disclosed on Wednesday by IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol, who confirmed that the agency had received an official request from the Nigerian government.
“Delighted to receive a formal request from the Government of Nigeria in a letter from Minister Ekperikpe Ekpo for Nigeria to join the IEA Family as an associate member government,” Birol wrote in a post on X.
The request was conveyed in a formal letter signed by Ekperikpe Ekpo, according to the IEA chief.
Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, has increasingly sought greater engagement with international energy institutions as it balances fossil fuel development with energy transition goals, gas expansion and broader energy security priorities.
Associate membership in the Paris-based IEA would deepen Nigeria’s cooperation with the organization on energy policy, data sharing, market analysis, technology development and transition planning.
The move comes at a period of heightened volatility in global energy markets following the escalation of conflict involving Iran, which has disrupted oil production and supply flows across parts of the Middle East.
Earlier on Wednesday, the 32-member IEA warned that global oil supply may fall short of total demand this year as the Iran war continues to affect production levels and create uncertainty across international energy markets.
The agency noted that the ongoing geopolitical tensions could tighten supply conditions and sustain pressure on crude oil prices if disruptions persist.
Nigeria’s application also comes as the country seeks to reposition its energy sector through increased refining capacity, gas infrastructure expansion and broader reforms aimed at attracting investment into the petroleum industry.
Industry analysts say closer engagement with the IEA could provide Nigeria with stronger access to global energy policy discussions at a time when African producers are pushing for a balanced approach to energy transition that accommodates continued investment in oil and gas development.
