African Union Invites Edo State Government to Showcase Energy Reforms at Abidjan Summit

The African Union Commission (AUC) has invited Edo State Commissioner for Power to speak at a high-level continental summit in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, in recognition of the state’s progress in the energy sector.

The invitation was conveyed in a letter signed by Mr Regis Tade, Innovation Expert in the Directorate of Industry, Mining, Entrepreneurship and Tourism (IMET), under the African Union Commission’s Department of Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals (ETTIM).

According to the letter, the Commissioner has been invited to serve as an Inspirational Speaker on the Founder Stage during the Joint 9th Specialised Technical Committee (STC) on Finance and the 5th STC on Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals. The event is scheduled to take place in Abidjan, Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, from July 20 to 24, 2026.

The Commission said the invitation was in recognition of the “notable progress achieved by Edo State in the energy sector,” describing the state’s experience as an example of innovation, vision and results-driven leadership that could inspire other African countries.

The summit will bring together government officials, policymakers, development partners, private sector leaders and other stakeholders to discuss strategies for financing Africa’s industrialisation and sustainable economic development.

The African Union said it expected Edo State to share its experience in advancing energy infrastructure and reforms, noting that the state’s achievements would contribute to discussions on industrial growth and sustainable development across the continent.

The Commission stated that details of the programme, participation format and other arrangements had been outlined in the formal invitation sent to the governor. It also expressed its readiness to provide further clarification ahead of the meeting.

A copy of the correspondence was also sent to the Edo State Commissioner for Power, Hon Paul Usenbo.

The invitation marks a continental recognition of Edo State’s efforts to strengthen its energy sector, which the state government has identified as a key driver of industrialisation, investment and economic growth.