As Nigeria Energy convenes for its 12th edition from October 28th to 30th at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos, it does so at a defining moment for the country’s power sector. The Electricity Act 2023 has opened new channels for investment, while state-level reforms are fostering decentralised electricity markets. Still, financing constraints, policy inconsistencies, and infrastructure deficits remain major hurdles on the road to reliable and sustainable power.
In this conversation, Ade Yesufu, exhibition manager for energy portfolio, MEA at Informa Markets, discusses what makes the 2025 edition distinctive, how the conference is bridging the gap between policy and implementation, and why this year’s theme: “Powering Nigeria through investment, innovation and partnership,” reflects the sector’s most urgent priorities.
Nigeria Energy has steadily grown into a flagship event for the sector. From a business and policy standpoint, what makes this year’s edition different?
Nigeria Energy 2025 is distinctive in its focus on actionable solutions rather than just dialogue. This year’s theme, “Powering Nigeria through investment, innovation and partnership,” deliberately places investment at the forefront because we’re at a critical moment where policy frameworks like the Electricity Act 2023 exist, but implementation requires significant capital mobilisation. What differentiates this edition is the expanded agenda that addresses the entire value chain simultaneously. We’re examining how to structure bankable PPPs, exploring state-level reforms, and discussing grid digitisation and hydrogen economy positioning. We’re not looking at generation or distribution in isolation. We’re examining how these elements work together to create a more reliable, sustainable power sector. This year’s conference is expecting over 8,500 participants, including energy commissioners, developers, regulators, and financiers. The calibre of stakeholders reflects both the urgency and opportunity within the sector right now.
One recurring theme in the power sector is financing. How does Nigeria Energy create an enabling environment for investors and financiers to engage with viable projects?
Financing remains the most critical bottleneck, and we’ve designed Nigeria Energy specifically to de-risk the investment process through structured engagement. Our VIP Hosted Buyer Programme brings together 150+ high-level decision-makers for exclusive matchmaking sessions. Local stakeholders can present investment-ready projects while international investors gain direct access to emerging opportunities.
Beyond networking, the conference provides regulatory clarity through sessions like “Power Deals & PPPs” and “Electricity Act in Action.” Investors engage directly with government officials, regulatory bodies, and successful project developers in these sessions. When investors understand the frameworks, see concrete examples of bankable deals, and can engage with decision-makers face-to-face, their confidence in committing capital increases significantly. We’re also showcasing proven technologies through our exhibition of 200+ exhibitors. This allows investors to see what’s available, what works, and what can be deployed at scale. We’re not just creating dialogue. We’re creating the conditions for deals to happen.
Regulatory consistency is often cited as a challenge. How will this year’s conference foster dialogue between government policymakers and private sector leaders?
The Electricity Act 2023 marked a historic shift by decentralizing regulation and enabling state-level markets, but implementation has been uneven. This is why “Electricity Act in Action” is one of our five core focus areas. We’ve structured sessions that bring policymakers and private sector leaders into the same room for honest, productive conversations. Our speakers include Sadiq Wanka, Special Adviser to the President on Power Infrastructure, Biodun Ogunleye, Lagos State Commissioner for Energy, and CEOs of major generation companies.
These aren’t ceremonial appearances. They’re working sessions where we examine what’s working, identify bottlenecks, and discuss practical solutions. What we’ve learned from previous editions is that informal interactions are just as valuable as formal sessions. When a state commissioner sits beside a private developer during a panel and they continue the conversation afterward, that’s where real alignment happens. We create multiple touchpoints including panels, roundtables, and networking sessions where these relationships develop naturally.
Renewable energy adoption is accelerating across Africa. How is Nigeria Energy positioning itself to spotlight opportunities in off-grid and clean energy solutions?
Nigeria is at a pivotal moment where we’re not simply replicating centralized grid models. We’re examining how decentralized solutions, renewable integration, and hybrid systems can address energy access gaps more effectively. Our exhibition features dedicated sectors for Renewables and Clean Energy alongside Battery and e-Mobility solutions because these technologies are deployable today. The agenda reflects this with sessions on state reform strategies examining decentralized markets. We’re also discussing how renewable integration improves reliability rather than complicates it.
Nigeria aims to boost renewable energy to 50% of its power mix, which requires mobilizing $15.5 billion in private investments. What’s particularly exciting is the participation of off-grid developers, solar providers, and climate finance institutions. They’re demonstrating that renewable solutions aren’t just environmentally beneficial. They are economically viable and can be deployed faster than traditional grid extensions. By showcasing successful projects and connecting developers with financiers, we’re accelerating adoption across the value chain.
From smart metering to grid digitization to AI-driven energy management, technology is reshaping the sector. What innovations will be front and centre at this year’s exhibition?
Technology is no longer optional. It’s essential for achieving efficiency, reliability, and financial sustainability. Our exhibition showcases smart metering solutions that enable real-time monitoring and improve billing accuracy. We’re featuring grid digitization technologies using data analytics and predictive maintenance to reduce downtime. AI-driven energy management systems that optimize generation schedules and manage distributed resources will also be prominent. For distribution companies struggling with technical and commercial losses, these technologies offer practical pathways to profitability.
One of our key conference topics addresses this directly: “Innovative solutions and value chain collaboration: Is this the solution to the metering challenge?” Beyond the exhibition floor, our Technical Seminar provides hands-on learning so energy professionals understand how to implement and maintain these solutions. We’re bridging the gap between awareness and adoption by ensuring attendees leave with practical knowledge they can apply immediately.
Nigeria Energy brings together both local and international exhibitors. How are Nigerian companies benefiting from this global exposure, and what success stories can you share?
Nigerian companies exhibiting alongside international players gain visibility, credibility, and access to partnerships that would be difficult to achieve otherwise. We have seen local manufacturers secure distribution agreements with international firms. Nigerian developers have partnered with global technology providers. Local engineering firms have won contracts with multinational projects. A concrete example is the growth of local renewable energy developers who initially attended as visitors, became exhibitors, and now lead significant solar projects nationwide. Their exposure to international standards and financing models accelerated their capacity building significantly. For Nigerian technology providers, the exhibition serves as a testing ground. They showcase solutions to utilities and large consumers, receiving feedback that leads to pilot projects and commercial deployments. Relationships formed at Nigeria Energy often develop into long-term partnerships and joint ventures that strengthen the local ecosystem. This is critical for building a sustainable, self-reliant energy sector.
For businesses in Nigeria, what tangible opportunities does participation in Nigeria Energy open up, whether through partnerships, market access, or knowledge exchange?
Participation offers multiple value propositions depending on where you sit in the value chain. For businesses expanding their customer base, the exhibition provides direct access to over 8,500 energy professionals. This includes procurement decision-makers from utilities, industrial consumers, and government agencies. For companies seeking partnerships, structured networking and our VIP Hosted Buyer Programme facilitate connections with potential collaborators, distributors, or joint venture partners. Knowledge exchange is equally valuable. Conference sessions provide insights into regulatory changes and market trends that impact business strategy. The Technical Seminar offers capacity building that enhances professionals’ ability to evaluate and implement new solutions. Market intelligence gained from engaging with peers, competitors, and customers over three days provides a clearer picture of pricing trends and emerging opportunities. This information is invaluable for strategic planning and investment decisions.
Who should be attending Nigeria Energy 2025 that might not realize this event is for them?
Beyond traditional power sector players, several groups would benefit significantly from this year’s conference. State and local government officials involved in economic development and infrastructure planning should attend. With the Electricity Act enabling state-level generation, they need to understand the opportunities and frameworks available. Large industrial and commercial consumers exploring captive power solutions can evaluate backup generators, solar-plus-storage, and gas-to-power technologies in one location. Our agenda includes a session specifically on “Captive power: Reshaping Nigeria’s energy landscape?” Financial institutions and private equity firms looking beyond traditional sectors will find investment opportunities.
The conference provides the context and relationships needed to participate effectively. Technology startups in IoT, data analytics, and fintech may not realise how their innovations solve energy challenges. Environmental and climate-focused organisations should attend because Nigeria’s energy transition strategy is being shaped now. Discussions on renewable integration and sustainable financing directly impact their work. Nigeria Energy is ultimately about collaborative problem-solving. Anyone with a stake in reliable, affordable, sustainable energy will find value in participating.
Nigeria Energy 2025 takes place this October at the Landmark Centre, Lagos. As the industry continues to evolve, the event remains the region’s most influential platform for advancing policy, fostering partnerships, and catalysing investment across the energy value chain
