Ogun commissioner Advocates Dual-Track Energy Strategy To Power Africa’s Growth Sustainably
The Ogun State Commissioner for Finance and Chief Economic Adviser, Dapo Okubadejo, has made a strong case for a pragmatic, Africa-based energy transition and dual-track energy strategy to power Africa’s growth sustainably.
This took center stage as he addressed global stakeholders at the Commonwealth Trade and Investment Summit in London.
In a speech that resonated with policymakers, investors, and development experts, Okubadejo challenged the long-standing global narrative that positions energy security and decarbonization as opposing goals.
He described the notion as a “false choice,” insisting that both objectives can—and must—be pursued together.
“Energy today is no longer just a sector—it is power, prosperity, and survival. It is central to Africa’s economic future,” he stated.
Highlighting the continent’s stark realities, Okubadejo noted that over 600 million Africans remain without access to electricity, with businesses and industries constrained by unreliable power supply.
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He described the situation as a development crisis, emphasizing that “you cannot decarbonize darkness.”
To address this challenge, he proposed a “dual-track energy transition” tailored to Africa’s needs.
“The approach prioritizes immediate energy stability through the use of domestic gas resources and improved infrastructure, while simultaneously advancing long-term decarbonization through investments in renewable energy, storage technologies, and smart grids.”
Central to this argument is the principle of sequencing. According to him, energy security must come first to create a stable foundation upon which sustainable decarbonization can be achieved. Any attempt to reverse this order, he warned, risks economic disruption and policy failure.
He further expanded the concept of energy security, urging a shift from traditional supply-focused thinking to a broader framework that includes affordability, reliability, sustainability, and strategic autonomy.
He also cautioned that while the global transition to clean energy is necessary, it introduces new risks such as supply chain dependencies and grid instability.
Beyond diagnosis, Okubadejo outlined key priorities for Africa’s energy future, including building resilient and flexible energy systems, prioritizing energy efficiency, securing strategic supply chains, leveraging gas as a transition fuel, and strengthening governance and regulatory frameworks.
He stressed that strong institutions and clear, consistent policies are critical to attracting investment and ensuring long-term success.
Okubadejo, however, called for global collaboration, urging the international community to support Africa with fair financing, technology transfer, and equitable transition frameworks.
“Africa did not create the climate crisis, but it must be part of the solution. There is a need for partnerships that enable development rather than constrain it,” he noted.
He concluded by positioning Africa not as a passive participant, but as a potential leader in shaping the future of global energy—provided the right decisions are made.
“The future will not be powered by ideology. It will be powered by decisions,” he concluded.