The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, has empowered more than 80 young Nigerians with startup grants and leadership training through the inaugural Mustapha Abdullahi Energy Leadership Fellowship (MAELF) 2026, an initiative designed to nurture the next generation of leaders in Nigeria’s energy sector.
The week-long fellowship, organised by the DAM Foundation in partnership with the APC National Youth Wing, concluded in Abuja with the presentation of certificates and an empowerment package worth over N17 million. Outstanding participants received startup grants ranging from N500,000 to N5 million to help launch and grow innovative ventures.
The residential programme brought together selected young Nigerians from across the country for intensive training in leadership, energy policy, entrepreneurship, innovation, governance, and sustainable development.
Over six days, participants engaged in lectures, policy dialogues, mentorship sessions, panel discussions, innovation workshops, team projects, and networking activities aimed at preparing them for leadership roles in Nigeria’s evolving energy landscape.
The fellowship also introduced participants to opportunities within the country’s energy ecosystem while providing access to professional networks, mentorship, and entrepreneurial skills needed to drive innovation and sustainable development.
Resource persons at the programme included the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh; the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande Wisdom; former Senate President and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim; Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Engr. Abba Abubakar Aliyu; and APC National Youth Leader, Hon. Dayo Israel.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Abdullahi said the fellowship was established to raise ethical, competent, and visionary leaders capable of driving Nigeria’s energy transition and contributing to national development.
He described the graduating fellows as ambassadors of hope, future innovators, and solution providers who have the potential to shape the country’s energy future.
Abdullahi urged participants to build their leadership on integrity, excellence, and service, noting that while knowledge creates opportunities, character sustains leadership and service builds lasting impact.
He also emphasised that the energy sector extends beyond power generation and infrastructure, describing it as a critical driver of economic growth, industrial development, healthcare, education, poverty reduction, and improved quality of life.
According to him, achieving Nigeria’s energy transition will require courageous leadership, innovation, and ethical professionals committed to sustainable development.
He encouraged the fellows to become advocates for clean energy, maintain the professional networks established during the programme, and continue developing practical solutions to the country’s energy challenges.
Organisers said the successful completion of the maiden MAELF marks a significant investment in youth empowerment and human capital development, with plans already underway to expand future editions of the fellowship.