The Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) has announced the confirmation of distinguished African Heads of State for its 2026 edition, 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 His Excellency Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, President of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea. The Summit will be hosted by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who will serve as Chief Host.

“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 its central role in shaping Nigeria’s and Africa’s energy future.

NIES 2026 will also convene 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. This broad-based participation reflects the Summit’s commitment to inclusive, multi-stakeholder engagement across the global energy value chain.

The Summit further acknowledges the critical role of its strategic partners, including international oil companies, national oil companies, global service providers, financial institutions, and multilateral development partners. Their 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 will convene under the theme “Energy for Peace and Prosperity: Securing Our Shared Future.” NIES 2026 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.

“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,” said Kunle Odusola-Stevenson, NIES Conference Producer.