By Tolu Oke
As global attention shifts toward renewable energy and climate resilience, Africa is being challenged to define its role in the future of power generation, distribution, and consumption. Business and petroleum consultant Usunobun Ernest is calling for bold, visionary action to transform the continent’s energy narrative. For Usunobun, who leads CitiTap Nig Ltd and consults across oil, gas, and infrastructure sectors, the solution will not be found in borrowed models. Africa must design its own path.
He believes the energy conversation must go beyond solar panels and hydropower campaigns. It must focus on access, affordability, and ownership. Until the average African has consistent power for their home, school, and business, energy discussions remain incomplete.
“Our biggest problem is not lack of resources. It is lack of courage. Courage to plan locally, build regionally, and own our supply chains,” Usunobun said. “We cannot copy what works elsewhere without adapting it to our realities.”
According to him, millions of Africans still rely on generators or go completely without power. This reality calls for urgent investments in transmission lines, micro-grid technology, and localized energy hubs. He warns that focusing only on large-scale projects delays access for rural and semi-urban areas that need immediate solutions.
“Energy must be both big and small. While we plan for mega plants, we must also deploy scalable solutions that bring light to homes today,” he explained.
Usunobun also challenges policymakers to work more collaboratively across borders. He sees regional integration as a powerful way to stabilize grids, lower costs, and reduce duplication of effort. Shared infrastructure, regulatory alignment, and cross-border innovation will strengthen the sector.
From LPG access to off-grid solar to modular refineries, Usunobun believes a hybrid approach is what Africa needs. And to make that happen, leaders must involve more private sector players and youth innovators in energy planning and execution.
“We keep locking energy policy inside government buildings. But the people building batteries, testing solar, and training electricians are outside those walls. We must bring them in,” he said.
CitiTap Nig Ltd is actively engaging in multi-stakeholder forums focused on sustainable energy and inclusive infrastructure planning. Usunobun continues to advise clients not just on profit but on purpose: building systems that work for communities and stand the test of time.
He insists that bold thinking is not about making noise. It is about making moves. Moves that challenge outdated processes, welcome fresh ideas, and prioritize people over politics.
“Our future depends on how brave we are today. We must invest in energy solutions that work for Africa, not just the ones that impress foreign investors,” he said.
For Usunobun Ernest, the time for visionary energy leadership is now. And if the continent rises to the challenge, power will no longer be a privilege. It will be a basic right.
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