Nigerian energy expert, Damilola Ogunbiyi don make history as she become the first Nigerian wey win the prestigious TIME Earth Awards for 2026.
TIME Magazine announce say Ogunbiyi join five other global leaders wey dem recognise for their strong work to fight climate change and push clean energy development across the world.
Ogunbiyi, wey be CEO of Sustainable Energy for All and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, collect the award because of her efforts to promote clean energy and reduce carbon emissions globally.
The TIME Earth Awards, wey don reach its fourth year, na one of the highest recognitions from TIME for people wey don make serious impact for climate action worldwide.
According to statement from TIME, Ogunbiyi stand out because she dey lead efforts to speed up transition to clean energy and help countries reduce pollution while also improving access to steady electricity.
While reacting, Ogunbiyi talk say the energy transition no just be about technology, but about people and how clean power fit change lives.
She say, many countries for Global South dey show example, including Pakistan wey don increase solar power and Kenya wey dey generate over 90% of its electricity from clean energy.
For Nigeria, she highlight say renewable energy programmes dey expand fast, helping bring light to more communities and improving people livelihood.
Under her leadership, Sustainable Energy for All don partner with over 200 organisations, support more than 100 countries, and help secure over $1.6 trillion for global energy financing.
Before this role, Ogunbiyi serve as Managing Director of Rural Electrification Agency of Nigeria, where she lead Nigerian Electrification Project — a $550 million programme wey bring electricity give over eight million Nigerians and support installation of clean energy for hospitals, schools and government offices.
Ogunbiyi don also receive several global recognitions, including being listed among Forbes Sustainability Leaders 2025 and the TIME100 Climate list for 2024.
She also receive national honour from United Arab Emirates for her role in the success of COP28 climate conference.
Since January 2020, Ogunbiyi don continue to lead Sustainable Energy for All, pushing for better access to clean and affordable energy, especially for developing countries.
