Women Hold the Key to Africa’s Green Energy Future, Says Transcorp CEO
Dr. Owen Omogiafo, Chief Executive Officer of Transcorp Plc, has asserted that women are crucial to the future success of energy in Nigeria and across the African continent, particularly in the shift towards cleaner, sustainable energy sources.
Speaking at a “Women in Energy” forum during the Nigerian International Energy Summit (NIES), Omogiafo emphasized women’s natural inclination and resilience in driving progress.
Omogiafo addressed the pressing issue of energy access in Africa, particularly the continued reliance on firewood and charcoal for cooking, which poses significant health risks, especially for women. She questioned Africa’s progress in transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
“Women are cooking with firewood and charcoal. A lot of them are having lung cancer,” she lamented.
She stressed the importance of women’s leadership in advocating for and driving the energy transition. “We need to tell the stories ourselves. We ought to advocate for ourselves,” she said, emphasizing that the energy transition cannot be left solely to men. She also reinforced that while Nigeria has traditionally focused on oil and gas, it is critical to include women in all aspects of the energy sector.
Omogiafo shared her own experience, noting that she faced skepticism when appointed to lead Transcorp due to her gender. However, she has since proven her capabilities, with Transcorp experiencing significant success in the stock exchange under her leadership.
She urged women to persevere despite challenges and statistical disparities, emphasizing that “Today, you literally need just one person to make a difference.” She called on men to recognize the unique challenges women face in leadership roles.
“Let us not be distracted or discouraged by the poor statistics,” Omogiafo concluded. “The future of green cleaner energy is in the hands of women.”
