Nigerian energy expert, Damilola Ogunbiyi, has been named among six global leaders recognised in the 2026 TIME Earth Awards, becoming the first Nigerian to receive the prestigious honour.
The recognition, announced by TIME, celebrates Ogunbiyi’s contributions to advancing clean energy and tackling climate change worldwide.
Currently serving as Chief Executive Officer of Sustainable Energy for All and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, Ogunbiyi was honoured for her efforts in accelerating the global transition to sustainable energy and reducing carbon emissions.
The TIME Earth Awards, now in their fourth year, represent the organisation’s highest recognition for individuals making lasting contributions to climate action.
Reacting to the award, Ogunbiyi highlighted the human impact of energy transformation, particularly across developing regions.
“The energy transition is about people and the families and communities whose lives are transformed by reliable, clean power,” she said.
She noted that countries in the Global South are leading the way, citing examples such as Pakistan’s growing solar capacity and Kenya’s reliance on clean energy for most of its electricity generation. She also pointed to Nigeria’s expanding renewable energy programmes as a driver of economic opportunity and improved livelihoods.
Under her leadership, Sustainable Energy for All has partnered with over 200 organisations, supported more than 100 countries, and helped secure more than $1.6 trillion in energy financing commitments globally.
Before her current role, Ogunbiyi served as Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, where she led the Nigerian Electrification Project — a $550 million initiative that has delivered electricity access to over eight million Nigerians. The programme also deployed more than 100 megawatts of decentralised energy projects across key sectors, including healthcare and education.
The TIME recognition adds to a growing list of international honours for Ogunbiyi, including her inclusion in the 2024 TIME100 Climate list and recognition among the 2025 Forbes Sustainability Leaders. She also received the First Class Order of Zayed II for her role in the success of COP28.
Observers say her latest achievement further cements Nigeria’s presence in global climate leadership and underscores the increasing importance of clean energy solutions in addressing both environmental and developmental challenges.
