ECREEE took part in the 16th Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), held from 10 – 12 January in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The gathering brought together more than 1,500 delegates representing 171 Member States, alongside business leaders, investors, international organisations, and media, all united in advancing global collaboration toward a sustainable, renewable‑energy future.
Held under the theme “Powering Humanity: Renewable Energy for Shared Prosperity,” the event also marked the 6th World Energy Transition Day. In a video address, UN Secretary‑General H.E. António Guterres commended IRENA for its pivotal role in driving global energy transitions. Discussions explored a wide range of pressing topics, including regional energy transition pathways, critical infrastructure such as power grids, energy planning, digital innovation and artificial intelligence (AI), sustainable finance mobilisation, including sustainable aviation fuels, and the role of renewable energy in transforming agri‑food systems and supporting green industrialisation.
ECREEE was represented by three delegates: Gibson Obasi, Acting Executive Director; Mawufemo Modjinou, Acting Director of Operations; and Monica Maduekwe, Resource Mobilisation and Project Development Officer. Speaking on several panels, Mr. Obasi highlighted ECREEE’s ongoing efforts to scale up renewable energy and energy‑efficient technologies across West Africa. He presented key achievements in regional energy planning, policy translation at national levels, investment catalysation, capacity building, and the development of enabling frameworks. He further underscored ECREEE’s commitment to strategic partnerships aimed at accelerating sustainable energy goals in the region.
The Assembly concluded on a positive and forward‑looking note, with participants updated on global progress toward SDG 7, access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all, and the challenges that must still be addressed to close existing gaps.
