Goodwill Message by the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Mrs. Olu Arowolo Verheijen, at the NIES 2025 ‘Women in Energy Forum’, at the Abuja Continental Hotel, on Monday February 24, 2025 Theme: “Advancing Africa’s Energy Transformation and Inclusion”
Protocol
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
The imperative of inclusion in leadership, particularly in critical sectors like energy, cannot be overstated. Women must not only be present but actively shape the policies, strategies, and decisions that define Africa’s energy future. This is more than a moral obligation; it is an economic and developmental necessity.
We have heard compelling insights on the urgency of elevating women into leadership roles in Africa’s evolving energy landscape. Following my remarks, a distinguished panel of women driving the continent’s energy transformation will share their perspectives. These discussions are crucial, as they not only highlight the progress made but also illuminate the path forward.
At this juncture in history, the principles of inclusion and meritocracy are often framed as opposing forces—an erroneous assumption that undermines collective progress. We must be unequivocal: inclusion strengthens, rather than dilutes, excellence. Our challenge is not a lack of female talent but the absence of systemic structures that grant women equitable access to leadership opportunities. Addressing this imbalance requires intentional, strategic action.
Four Strategic Solutions for Advancing Women in Energy
i. Targeted Capacity Building & Mentorship Programs The absence of women in leadership is not due to a lack of capability but a deficit in access to the right networks and opportunities. Structured mentorship and leadership development initiatives must be established to provide women with the skills, exposure, and industry connections necessary to ascend to decision-making roles. Corporations, governments, and industry associations must institutionalize mentorship programs that connect emerging female leaders with experienced executives.
ii. Policy & Regulatory Incentives for Gender Inclusion Governments and regulatory bodies must implement policies that mandate gender inclusivity in corporate leadership, board appointments, and energy sector decision-making. Establishing clear benchmarks for female representation in executive roles—alongside incentives for companies that achieve these targets—will accelerate progress. Additionally, funding mechanisms should be designed to support women-led energy enterprises and startups, ensuring that female entrepreneurs can participate in the sector’s growth.
iii. Investment in STEM Education & Workforce Pipeline Development The underrepresentation of women in energy leadership is rooted in systemic barriers that begin early in education. Expanding access to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education for girls and young women is critical. Scholarships, vocational training, and industry partnerships with universities can bridge this gap, ensuring that the next generation of women is equipped to excel in technical and leadership roles across the energy value chain.
iv. Active Male Sponsorship & Allyship in Leadership Spaces While women continue to champion each other, the reality is that many leadership spaces remain male-dominated. It is not enough for men to passively support gender inclusion—they must actively advocate for and sponsor women in leadership pipelines. We must hold male leaders accountable, ensuring they open doors, recommend women for leadership roles, and contribute to dismantling systemic barriers.
Energy Access & Women’s Empowerment Beyond leadership representation, energy access remains an urgent gender issue. Women bear a disproportionate burden of Africa’s energy poverty, with millions still relying on firewood and charcoal for cooking—at immense cost to their health, productivity, and economic potential. An estimated 600,000 women die annually from household air pollution caused by traditional cooking fuels. Universal access to clean energy solutions—whether electricity or modern cooking fuels—is not simply an infrastructure goal; it is a life-saving intervention that directly improves the well-being of women and girls.
Every advancement in Africa’s energy sector translates into progress for women: thriving small businesses, strengthened rural economies, and enhanced educational access for girls who no longer need to collect firewood instead of attending school.
A Call to Action: Dr. Oduwole and I stand before you today because President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recognized our expertise and entrusted us with significant responsibilities. Our experience underscores a fundamental truth: women are equally qualified to lead, but access to opportunity remains the defining gap. Let us leave this session not just inspired but committed to actionable steps that will drive systemic change. The future of Africa’s energy sector depends on harnessing the full spectrum of talent available—and that means ensuring women are not just included but empowered to lead. I thank you for your kind attention. Mrs Olu Arowolo Verheijen Special Adviser to the President on Energy Abuja, Nigeria 24 February 2025