Oil-rich African nations said they will continue drilling to support economic growth, despite global efforts to phase out fossil fuels, AFP reported from ongoing talks in Colombia.

Officials from several producers argued that a rapid transition away from oil and gas is not feasible given their reliance on fossil fuel revenues.

"Not phasing out - phase down. That is the message," said Onuoha Magnus Chidi, an adviser to Nigeria's regional development minister, to AFP.

Delegates warned that an abrupt shift could lead to job losses and economic disruption, calling for financial support and policy flexibility to help manage the transition, AFP said.