An energy economist has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to urgently develop and enforce policies that place energy efficiency at the forefront of national strategy. This move is presented as a critical solution to mounting challenges including energy insecurity, climate change impacts, economic instability, and the shifting global energy landscape.
Book Launch Highlights Strategic Need for Efficiency
The urgent appeal was made by Dr Romanus Osabohien, an energy economist and development scholar, during the unveiling of a new academic volume. The book, titled ‘Energy Efficiency in Critical Times: Security, Economics, and Transition’, was published by the global academic publisher Elsevier.
The launch event took place on 29 December 2025 and served as a major highlight of the African Scholars Mentorship Network (ASMN) Community Converge. This intellectual forum was organised by the DePECOS Institutions and Development Research Centre (DIaDeRC).
Dr Osabohien, who lectures at the Institute of Energy, Economics and Policy, Energy University in Malaysia, edited the volume as part of his Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN), Malaysia. The book critically analyses how energy efficiency can be a practical instrument for tackling energy insecurity and promoting sustainability across Nigeria and the wider African continent.
A Global Perspective on a Pressing Issue
The publication brings together insights from contributors across Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America, adopting a worldwide viewpoint. It addresses several pivotal themes:
- Energy policy reform
- Renewable energy adoption
- Pathways to sustainability
- Reduction of energy poverty
- Building climate resilience
- Socioeconomic impacts of energy transitions
Speaking at the gathering, which attracted academics, policy experts, researchers, and institutional leaders from the international community, Osabohien stressed the non-negotiable nature of energy efficiency today.
“In today’s world of energy shocks, climate risks, and economic instability, energy efficiency is no longer optional,” he stated. “It is a fundamental requirement for energy security, economic resilience, and sustainable development, especially for countries with fiscal and environmental constraints.”
Catalysed by Global Crises
The economist revealed that the conception of the book was influenced significantly by recent global disruptions. The COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian-Ukrainian war laid bare severe vulnerabilities in global energy supply chains, effects felt deeply in Europe and Africa.
He argued that the efficient use of limited resources is vital for cutting costs, minimising waste, and directly combating energy poverty in nations like Nigeria.
In his welcome address, Professor Evans Osabuohien, a renowned economist at Covenant University and Founding Chair of DIaDeRC, celebrated the successful launch. He drew parallels to the launch of his own first book in Berlin in 2015. He praised the editor and contributors for their intellectual rigour.
Other participants, including private sector experts and professionals from the built environment, highlighted the importance of renewable sources like biomass. They also emphasised the necessity of strong political will to drive a successful energy transition in Nigeria.
Fostering Collaboration and Future Scholarship
The event also featured a session titled “The Origin of the Idea: The Making of the Book,” where contributors delved into the intellectual journey behind the publication. Discussions covered emerging research frontiers and the pressing need for stronger collaboration between academia and policymakers.
Participants outlined strategic research and mentorship priorities for 2026, reinforcing the ASMN's dedication to nurturing young African scholars. This commitment aligns with the DIaDeRC motto, “Honing Knowledge for Transforming Lives,” and focuses on promoting high-impact research and evidence-based policymaking across the Global South.
