Damilola Ogunbiyi becomes first Nigerian recipient of TIME Earth Awards for climate action
Damilola Ogunbiyi becomes first Nigerian recipient of TIME Earth Awards for climate action
Damilola Ogunbiyi, the United Nations (UN) special representative for sustainable energy and co-chair of UN-Energy
Damilola Ogunbiyi, the United Nations (UN) special representative for sustainable energy and co-chair of UN-Energy, has been named to the 2026 TIME Earth Awards list.
The TIME Earth Awards recognise individuals making significant contributions to global climate action and environmental sustainability.
Ogunbiyi was honoured for her role in advancing clean energy transition and driving the decarbonisation of energy systems globally, particularly across the Global South.
Her inclusion on the 2026 list places her among six global leaders recognised for their impact on climate action, making her the first Nigerian to receive the honour.
Ogunbiyi currently serves as chief executive officer of Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) and the UN secretary-general’s special representative for sustainable energy.
She has been instrumental in mobilising over $1.6 trillion in energy finance commitments and supporting clean energy transitions in multiple countries.
Speaking on the recognition, Ogunbiyi said the global energy transition must prioritise people and communities.
“The energy transition is about people and the families and communities whose lives are transformed by reliable, clean power,” she said.
“Across the Global South, countries are leading the way – from Pakistan’s solar capacity reaching 33 GW to Kenya generating over 90% of its electricity from clean energy.
“In Nigeria, one of the world’s largest distributed renewable energy programmes is expanding access at scale, unlocking opportunity and improving livelihoods. This recognition is a reminder of what’s possible when we put people at the centre of the energy transition.”
Under her leadership, SEforALL has built partnerships with over 200 organisations and supported more than 100 countries in expanding energy access.
Before her current roles, Ogunbiyi served as managing director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) in Nigeria, where she led the implementation of the Nigerian Electrification Project.
The initiative, a $550 million programme, has provided electricity access to over eight million Nigerians and delivered more than 100 megawatts of decentralised energy to critical institutions including hospitals, schools and government facilities.
President Bola Tinubu, in a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, his spokesperson, commended Ogunbiyi for her leadership in advancing global clean energy solutions.
“Ogunbiyi’s achievement not only reflects personal excellence but also underscores Nigeria’s growing influence and leadership in shaping innovative and impactful solutions to global development challenges,” the president said.
“I applaud her steadfast commitment to service and her significant role in elevating Nigeria’s profile on the international stage.”
