More than 600 million people in Africa live without electricity.

Africa's Electricity Access Problem

More than 600 million people in the African continent lack access to electricity, which is one of the basic needs. This situation not only prevents the provision of electricity but also leaves many families without healthy cooking options.

Warnings from the GECF Secretary General

At the 2026 Nigeria International Energy Summit, the Secretary General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), Philip Mshelbila, drew attention to this situation. Speaking at the summit held in the Nigerian capital Abuja, Mshelbila emphasized that Africa is far behind in electricity access compared to Europe and Asia. According to GECF assessments, it is stated that Africa's energy consumption needs to be at least tripled by 2050.

Overcoming Energy Poverty

Mshelbila argued that per capita energy consumption in Africa is only one-third of the global average, expressing the urgency of addressing this inequality. Natural gas plays a central role in this transformation process. He noted that natural gas is critical for enhancing food security through electricity and fertilizer production, while liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) could be used to promote healthy cooking conditions.

Population Growth and Energy Demand

The expert reminded that Nigeria's population is expected to reach 400 million within 25 years, highlighting the importance of in-depth planning regarding how this rapid increase will affect energy demand. Mshelbila stated that global primary energy demand is expected to increase by approximately 20% by 2050, stressing that meeting this demand safely, affordably, and sustainably will be one of the biggest challenges of the century.