At the African Energy Chamber (AEC), we understand that unlocking Africa’s full energy potential means investing in the next generation of engineers, scientists, and leaders who will drive sustainable solutions across the continent. The AEC Energy Scholarship is a cornerstone of this mission, and the journey of Zainab Iyiola is living proof of the impact such investment can have.
Zainab, a high-achieving Nigerian scholar pursuing a dual degree in petroleum engineering and data science in the United States, received the AEC Energy Scholarship at a pivotal time in her academic career. The support enabled her to focus fully on cutting-edge research in hydrogen, enhanced oil recovery, and carbon capture and storage, critical areas for the continent’s energy future. Free from financial strain, she soared: winning the university-wide Three Minute Thesis competition, authoring multiple research papers, and earning further accolades such as the prestigious Egbert Imomoh Scholarship from the Society of Petroleum Engineers.
“Receiving the AEC Energy Scholarship was a defining moment. It did more than pay for my studies, it validated the importance of my work and gave me the confidence to lead,” said Zainab. “I want to bring innovation back home and help shape Africa’s energy landscape through research, technology, and mentorship.”
Zainab is one of eight exceptional students awarded under the AEC Energy Education Fund 2023, which was created to recognize and reward emerging African talent in the energy industry. With special consideration given to female students, the scholarship is open to applicants under the age of 35 pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies in oil, gas, or energy-related fields. The competitive selection process is rooted in academic excellence, ensuring that recipients have demonstrated outstanding performance and potential.
In addition to recognition and mentorship, recipients receive financial support, and this funding is designed to ease the financial burden of higher education and allow scholars to focus on their academic and professional development in the energy sector.
“We don’t build Africa’s energy future with resources alone, we build it with people,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “Zainab’s story reminds us that when we invest in talent, we multiply opportunity. The AEC Energy Scholarship is not charity, it’s a strategy. It’s how we empower the next generation to lead the continent with courage, skill, and vision.”
For the AEC, the scholarship program is more than a financial award; it is a long-term investment in the leadership pipeline needed to transform Africa’s energy landscape.
“Zainab embodies the type of leadership Africa’s energy sector urgently needs—technically grounded, purpose-driven, and globally competitive,” said Oneyka Cindy Ojogbo, an international energy and infrastructure lawyer and advisor to the Chamber. “Supporting her journey through the AEC Scholarship reinforces the importance of investing in brilliant African minds who will shape the narrative of our continent’s development.”
As the AEC continues to expand its educational and professional development initiatives, it remains committed to ensuring that more young Africans—especially women—are empowered to lead. Through programs like the AEC Energy Scholarship, the Chamber is shaping the architects of Africa’s energy future.
