President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has congratulated Damilola Ogunbiyi on becoming the first Nigerian to receive the TIME Earth Award, calling the honour “a testament to her exceptional leadership” in the global clean energy transition.
Ogunbiyi, Chief Executive Officer and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All and Co‑Chair of UN‑Energy, was recognised by TIME for her sustained contributions to tackling climate change and accelerating decarbonisation of energy systems, particularly across the Global South.
In a statement issued by the Presidency, Mr. Tinubu praised Ogunbiyi’s stewardship of Sustainable Energy for All, noting that the organisation has supported more than 100 countries and helped mobilise commitments totalling over USD 1.6 trillion in energy finance.
The President said the award highlights Ogunbiyi’s “exemplary leadership, professionalism and unwavering dedication to sustainable development,” and added that her achievement reflects positively on Nigeria’s role in shaping innovative solutions to global development challenges.
“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 statement quoted Mr. Tinubu as saying.
Mr. Tinubu also commended Ogunbiyi’s “steadfast commitment to service” and her contribution to elevating Nigeria’s profile on the international stage, and wished her continued success in her future endeavours.
The statement was issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.