Nigeria and the International Energy Agency (IEA) have signed a Joint Work Programme to strengthen cooperation on energy data, policy development and investment to support economic growth and energy security.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu at the signing in Abuja, described Nigeria’s formal admission as an IEA Association Country as a significant milestone and a reflection of the administration’s economic and energy reforms.

IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said Nigeria’s admission was unanimously approved by the agency’s governing board, following extensive consultations, adding that the IEA would provide policy advice, data, expertise and training to support Nigeria’s energy sector.

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, said the partnership would strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to develop reliable energy data and attract investment across the sector. Officials said the cooperation would cover areas including gas, clean cooking, renewable energy and energy planning.

The agreement is expected to deepen Nigeria’s role in global energy discussions and support efforts to improve energy security, affordability and sustainable development.