During African Energy Week (AEW) 2025, held from 29 September to 3 October in Cape Town, Olaniwun Ajayi LP reaffirmed its commitment to shaping Africa’s energy future.
The firm attended as a sponsor. Its delegation was led by Dr. Tominiyi Owolabi, Managing Partner of Olaniwun Ajayi LP. He was joined by Mr. Chuks Ibechukwu, Managing Partner of Olaniwun Ajayi (UK) LLP, together with Partners Mrs. Ibi Ogunbiyi and Mr. Damilola Salawu. As a group, they met energy leaders from across the continent for high-level talks on sustainable growth and cross-border collaboration.
Africa Energy Week panel on investment barriers
At the AEW main conference, Dr. Owolabi joined a panel titled “Reducing Barriers to Entry in African Energy Investments”. He set out three levers that can unlock capital across the continent’s energy markets. The first is a clear and enabling legal framework. The second is strategic partnership between sponsors, lenders and government. The third is an innovative financing structure that shares risk and draws in private money.
His central point was practical. Investors commit when the rules stay predictable and the deal structure is bankable. As a result, reform of the legal and regulatory base often matters more than incentives alone.
Thought leadership on the energy transition
Dr. Owolabi also featured in an exclusive AEW interview. There he discussed the firm’s work in the energy sector and its role in guiding clients through legal frameworks and strategic initiatives that drive sustainable growth.
The firm’s recent record reflects that focus. Olaniwun Ajayi LP acted as Solicitor to the Transaction on the NGN4 trillion power sector issuance programme. Moreover, the firm continues to track market reform through work such as the operationalisation of the Nigerian carbon market. During the same week, it also co-hosted the inaugural OA Energy Leadership Forum with Africa Legal.
From thought leadership to partnership, Olaniwun Ajayi LP stays committed to advancing Africa’s energy transformation through legal excellence and cross-sector collaboration.
To discuss energy investment or project financing in Africa, please contact our energy and infrastructure team.