…We must fix electricity to build $1tn economy – Elumelu
The Nigeria Governors’ Forum, in collaboration with the Chinese firm Energy China, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish energy planning implementation units across various states.
In a statement released on Thursday by its media unit, the NGF noted that the agreement aims to enhance energy planning efforts at the state level.
NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, said partnerships with investors and global stakeholders will drive financing, boost capacity, and improve grid infrastructure for renewable energy.
Kwara State Governor, represented by Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya, said the initiative marks a significant milestone in the nation’s energy sector, introducing innovative frameworks to attract investment and improve power supply reliability nationwide.
The governor as contained in the statement, said, “The MOU and the ensuing relationship between the organisations will signal a critical step in strengthening the institutional framework for sub-national energy governance through fostering energy security, efficiency, and economic development across the states.
“According to the Gombe state governor, ‘It is crucial to acknowledge the transformative journey that Nigeria is embarking upon in the area of access to sustainable electricity which includes renewable energy, particularly in the wake of the recently passed Electricity Act of 2023.
”This groundbreaking legislation marked a pivotal moment for our energy landscape, introducing innovative structures that aim to boost investments and enhance the reliability of power supply across the country. Since the passing of the Electricity Act, we have witnessed a surge of innovations and reforms aimed at revamping our energy sector.
”We are moving towards more decentralised energy solutions, encouraging the integration of renewable energy solutions that can provide sustainable and affordable electricity to our communities. ”
The forum chairman said the Act supports better regulations, encourages private investment, and promotes public-private partnerships crucial to achieving renewable energy goals.
NGF Chairman continued, ”We must acknowledge that these advances come with their own set of challenges. Shortfalls in infrastructure, financing, and regulatory hurdles continue to impede progress. We must address these issues collaboratively.
”By fostering partnerships between the government, private investors, and international stakeholders, we can develop innovative financing models, improve capacity building, and enhance grid infrastructure to accommodate renewable energy sources effectively.
”In this context, I want to highlight some of the ongoing reforms within states in Nigeria as they pursue ambitious but worthwhile and achievable energy initiatives. States are crafting tailored policies that align with national objectives while addressing local needs. They are also establishing frameworks and instituting regulatory bodies to drive the electricity markets within their localities. These reforms are crucial as they leverage our unique resources and provide flexibility to implement localized solar solutions.
”The synergy between state and federal initiatives will be key to driving effective change and achieving our collective renewable energy targets. The NGF has a vibrant Power Desk, which has played and continues to play a coordinating role in the efforts of the States as they strive to implement the Electricity Act. The Forum offers a one-stop platform in providing support to the States as they grapple with the enormous responsibility placed on their shoulders by the Electricity Act.”
According to the statement, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, said the MoU aligns with and supports President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The statement continued, “This partnership reflects our shared ambition to expand access to clean energy, strengthen energy planning at the state level, and promote sustainable technologies all in alignment with our National Energy Masterplan and national development goals.
”The scope of this MoU includes: Deployment of renewable energy infrastructure (solar, wind, hydro), and Establishment of a Nigeria-China Renewable Energy Research Centre to drive innovation, technology transfer, and capacity-building.
”This initiative will not only improve energy access, especially in off-grid communities, but also support job creation, investment, and our climate commitments. To the Governors’ Forum, I commend your proactive involvement. Your citizens will benefit directly from this long-term vision.
”The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology stands fully behind this initiative and will ensure its swift and transparent implementation.”
Chairman of the China Energy, Song Liang, pledged full implementation of the MoU and committed to strengthening cooperation between Nigeria and China.
He emphasized the importance of prioritizing energy sector development and promoting intelligence sharing on renewable energy.
Liang also vowed to enhance energy storage across all sectors, including green energy, aiming to elevate Nigeria-China relations to a new level of partnership.
