Damilola Ogunbiyi First Nigerian Honored with TIME Earth Award

Damilola Ogunbiyi has made history as the first Nigerian to be named to the TIME Earth Awards, which honor individuals making significant impacts in the global fight against climate change. As the CEO of Sustainable Energy for All and a Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, Ogunbiyi has been recognized for her efforts to advance clean energy transitions and decarbonize energy systems worldwide.

The TIME Earth Awards, now in their fourth year, highlight the contributions of six global leaders in climate action. Ogunbiyi emphasized the importance of energy transition for communities, stating that reliable clean power can transform lives, particularly in the Global South.

Her previous work includes leading Nigeria's Rural Electrification Agency, where she initiated the Nigerian Electrification Project, securing USD 550 million to provide energy access to 8 million people. Ogunbiyi's recognition reflects her transformative work and commitment to global energy finance, with a focus on improving livelihoods through sustainable energy solutions.