As Nigeria intensifies its efforts to achieve a cleaner and more sustainable energy future, Smart Energies, under the leadership of Dr Yinka Opeke, is emerging as one of the private sector’s most innovative forces in driving this transition. Formerly operating as Smart Gas, the company rebranded in 2024 to Smart Energies, reflecting its expanded mandate to include renewable energy and its broader ambition of delivering comprehensive clean energy solutions to Nigerians across all strata of society.
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Smart Energies has since evolved into a clean energy powerhouse offering end-to-end solutions that span LPG distribution, renewable energy integration, technology-driven mobile applications, and portable kitchen infrastructure. One of its flagship initiatives, “Trash for Gas,” exemplifies the company’s commitment to both environmental sustainability and social impact.
The campaign encourages residents in underserved communities to exchange recyclable waste for cooking gas, helping to tackle waste management issues while providing families with access to safer, cleaner cooking alternatives. Each three-kilogram gas cylinder distributed under this initiative serves an average of three to five people, advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 5, 7, and 13, which focus on gender equality, affordable and clean energy, and climate action, respectively.
Dr Opeke, who has consistently advocated for clean energy equity and environmental responsibility, noted that the company’s mission is deeply intertwined with empowering women, fostering inclusive access to energy, and combating the effects of climate change. However, she also highlighted that Nigeria’s clean energy transition is hampered by systemic issues such as poor policy implementation, inconsistent regulatory frameworks, and lack of inter-agency coordination.
For instance, land approvals from different government bodies often conflict, leading to bureaucratic delays that can stall progress. Cultural resistance also remains a hurdle, especially in areas where clean cooking solutions are unfamiliar or where women’s empowerment is met with scepticism. Dr Opeke emphasised that community sensitisation and advocacy are essential in overcoming these cultural barriers and accelerating adoption.
Despite these challenges, Dr Opeke remains firmly committed to the Nigerian energy landscape. “The terrain is volatile and it demands constant adaptation, but our journey has been organic. I absolutely enjoy what we do,” she said.
Through Smart Energies’ efforts, the private sector is proving that it can be a critical catalyst in tackling energy poverty and bridging the clean energy gap, particularly when innovation, technology, and community engagement are at the heart of operations.
Dr Opeke herself is a distinguished global leader with over two decades of experience in entrepreneurship, leadership, and social impact. Beyond her role at Smart Energies, she is the Founder and CEO of Trade Expo Africa (TEXA), a Houston-based organisation promoting Made-in-Africa products across Africa and the United States. Since its inception in 2017, TEXA has facilitated multi-million-dollar trade deals and launched an e-commerce platform in Houston to connect African businesses with global markets. Her philanthropic arm, the Smart Energies Foundation, has distributed more than 65,000 gas cylinders to underserved communities across Nigeria.
She is also the author of the influential book “Beyond Her Sexuality: The Strength Within,” which empowers women to discover and maximise their inner strength. Her academic credentials include a B.Sc. in Geography, M.Sc. degrees in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Project Management from the University of Ibadan and Queen Mary University of London respectively, and a Doctorate in Entrepreneurship and Organisational Leadership from Walden University, USA. She is also PRINCE2 certified and a John Maxwell-certified coach, trainer, and speaker.
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She’s an accomplishments have earned her numerous awards, including the Silverbird Special Achievement Award and the Amazon of the Year title. She has received commendations from prominent leaders including the late US Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Texas State Representative Shawn Thierry, and former Mayor of Houston, Sylvester Turner.
As Nigeria pushes forward in its clean energy journey, Dr Opeke remains committed to partnering with global organisations, governments, and entrepreneurs to scale impact and drive results. Smart Energies stands as a shining example of how visionary leadership, innovative technology, and community-driven solutions can work together to create a more sustainable future for all.
