Energy Security Takes Precedence Over Digital Inclusion, Says Oilserv Chairman

In a compelling address at the 22nd International Conference and Exhibition on Power and Telecommunication (ICEPT 2026), Emeka Okwuosa, chairman of Oilserv Group, emphasized the critical need for energy security in Nigeria and other African nations before advancing digital inclusion initiatives. Okwuosa's remarks came as part of a broader discussion on the challenges and opportunities presented by the energy transition in a digital era.

Okwuosa cautioned against the assumption that renewable energy sources will quickly replace fossil fuels in Africa, particularly in Nigeria, the continent's largest economy. He argued that the focus must first be on securing a reliable energy supply, which is essential for any digital expansion efforts. His presentation, titled “Energy Transition In A Digital Era: The Nexus, Challenges & Opportunities,” highlighted the complexities involved in balancing energy needs with environmental goals.

The Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, which organized the conference, also honored Okwuosa by naming him a Fellow, recognizing his significant contributions to the nation’s development. During his presentation, he outlined several obstacles hindering the energy transition, including inconsistent power supply, limitations in the existing grid, financing challenges, and a lack of skilled labor. He also pointed to cybersecurity risks and regulatory hurdles as additional barriers that must be addressed.

According to Okwuosa, achieving universal electricity access in sub-Saharan Africa by 2035 would require an estimated investment of nearly $150 billion—approximately six times the current annual spending. He posed a critical question regarding the urgency of the transition: “How quickly can we industrialize, electrify, digitalize and improve living standards while reducing emissions?” This question, he noted, is far more complex than merely asking how swiftly emissions can be cut.

Okwuosa highlighted the distinct challenges faced by Nigeria compared to European nations, where the focus of the energy transition is primarily on reducing emissions. In Nigeria, the priorities are multifaceted, encompassing access to energy, affordability, reliability, industrial growth, job creation, and energy security—all while pursuing decarbonization.

He referenced Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan, which aims for net-zero emissions by 2060 across key sectors such as power, cooking, oil and gas, transport, and industry. Okwuosa stressed that this transition should not be misconstrued as a complete abandonment of traditional energy sources. Instead, he argued that the oil and gas sector can leverage digital technologies to enhance efficiency, safety, and asset performance.

He pointed out that Nigeria's abundant natural gas resources could play a pivotal role in bolstering electricity reliability and supporting industrialization. Lower-carbon technologies, including mini-grids and distributed energy systems, could also help expand access to energy. Furthermore, implementing energy efficiency measures could alleviate demand pressures and enhance the resilience of the overall energy system.

Okwuosa noted a significant shift in the energy sector, where traditional energy companies are now expanding their focus from just hydrocarbons to include electrons and data. He explained that solar and wind energy generate electricity, while batteries store it, and electric vehicles, data centers, and digital platforms consume and optimize energy usage.

In closing, Okwuosa urged traditional energy companies to view the transition not merely as a threat but as a significant opportunity for capital allocation in the coming decades. The path forward, he suggested, will require a concerted effort to balance energy security with the pressing need for digital inclusion and environmental sustainability.