In an apparent move to boost state energy planning within the States of the Federation, governors, on Thursday, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Energy China.
Energy China is a major Chinese company known for renewable energy and gas production in China.
Speaking on behalf of the chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), the governor of Gombe State who doubles as the chairman of Northern Governors’ Forum, Alhaji Inuwa Yahaya, said that 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 decentralized energy solutions, encouraging the integration of renewable energy solutions that can provide sustainable and affordable electricity to our communities.
”The Act has also laid the groundwork for improving regulatory frameworks, enabling private sector investments, and fostering public-private partnerships, a vital component for the successful implementation of our renewable energy goals.”
However, he noted that, ”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.
”We believe that this relationship with the China Energy International Group will foster a robust development in the acceleration of energy access in the country and the NGF would use its best endeavours in supporting these efforts.”
Also, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, explained the MoU, saying, ”This collaboration supports the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 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.”
According to the Minister, ”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.
”Together, we are building a cleaner, smarter, and more resilient energy future for Nigeria.”
The chairman of the China Energy Commission, Dr. Song Liang, pledged full implementation of the MoU and ensured full cooperation between Nigeria and China.
He further said that there was the need to prioritise the development of the energy sector as well support sharing of intelligence on issues relating to renewable energy promotion
He promised to improve energy storage in all sector, including green energy, promising to turn Nigeria-China relationship to a new phase of cooperation.
Likewise, the Director General of the Nigeria Governors Forum, Dr. Abdullateef Shittu, said that, ”Since the passing of the Electricity Act, the NGF has being playing a pivotal role supporting and coordinating the efforts of States in their implementation of the Act.
”In addition, the NGF has established a robust Power Desk which is saddled with the critical role of coordinating the efforts of the States as they strive to implement the Electricity Act. The NGF Secretariat also facilitated the establishment of a Forum of Commissioners of Power and Energy, a platform for all the 36 States energy actors. This platform is designed to institute a community of best practices in the energy ecosystem as a means of advancing our journey to universal energy access.
”The NGF 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.
We have opened up strategic partnerships with relevant stakeholders and donor organisations in the energy space all in our bid to develop and sustain the growth of electricity in the country.”
”There is no doubt that this relationship with the China Energy International Group and Energy Commission of Nigeria will further a robust development in the acceleration of energy access in the country and we assure you that the NGF would work with you in supporting these efforts,” he stressed.
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