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Group pushes for stronger climate justice collaboration in Nasarawa

Michael Simire
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Group pushes for stronger climate justice collaboration in Nasarawa

The Beacon Youth Initiative (BYI), in partnership with Education as a Vaccine (EVA), has called for stronger collaboration with the Nasarawa State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development to promote climate justice.

The initiative’s Executive Director, Mr. Emmanuel-Envoh Okolo, announced this when he led the Climate Justice Clubs from three secondary schools on an advocacy visit to the ministry on Thursday, August 21, 2025, in Lafia, the state capital.

Abdullahi Audu Sule
Abdullahi Audu Sule, Governor of Nasarawa State

Okolo said BYI led the climate justice clubs, mainly girls from Government Secondary Schools Ombi 1, Azuba Bashayi, and Shabu, to demand critical ASKs from the Ministry for Youth and Sports Development.

Okolo said BYI led climate justice clubs, mostly girls from three secondary schools – Ombi 1, Azuba Bashayi, and Shabu – to present key demands to the ministry.

He added that over the past four years, BYI, in partnership with EVA and others, had promoted climate justice in Nasarawa, raised awareness, and built the capacity of young women and women with disabilities.

“As part of the programme, we are able to establish a Climate Justice Club in three secondary schools in Nasarawa State, with most the students being girls.

“Our selection is based on the fact that women, young girls, and women with disabilities are disproportionately impacted by climate change.

“We were able to expose the students to what climate change is about, the causes, mitigation, and adaptation, and how they can develop locally led solutions to climate change in their communities.

“I am excited to share with you that these students can now plant trees on their own, create awareness on climate change, and impact knowledge on their fellow students as well as their peers in the community,” he said.

According to him, BYI and partners are keen on amplifying the voices of these women, putting them in the right position where they can demand their rights regarding climate design, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation of programmes.

“As we know climate change is here with us, and action is all that we need now.

“So, the essence of their visit to this ministry today is to demand critical ‘ASKs toward climate change mitigation and adaptation in Nasarawa State,” he said.

Students from government secondary schools demanded more climate funding, teacher training, adoption of the Understanding Climate Change Handbook, and inclusive expansion of climate justice clubs.

In response, Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Yakubu Kwanta, who pledged the ministry’s commitment to prioritising climate change and women’s issues, promised support toward realising the students’ demands.

Kwanta was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr Ibrahim-Adamu Alhassan.

“We need to be deliberate and intentional in bringing young women and girls on board, and the only way to do that is to co-sign with them, co-plan with them, co-implement with them, and co-evaluate with them.

“I am very excited listening to these young girls. You must saturate your schools with the right knowledge and skills, then we scale up the club beyond three schools to all the schools in Nasarawa State.

“Thinking climate is thinking about the world, we only have one world we have to protect it so that it can serve us.

“It behoves us that when trees are falling, new ones are planted, we should use earth resources with a sense of responsibility.”

Kwanta said the ministry would craft activities like awareness creation and tree planting and make provisions for other issues raised at the ministry level in the 2026 budget to ensure climate justice in Nasarawa State.

By Oboh Linus

No climate justice without social justice – NLC

Michael Simire
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No climate justice without social justice – NLC

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has declared that climate justice cannot be realised without social and economic justice for workers.

Mr. Joe Ajaero, President of the NLC, stated this at the launch of two publications on climate policies, organised in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) on Thursday, August 21, 3035, in Abuja.

Joe Ajaero
Joe Ajaero, NLC President

The publications included “The Nigeria Labour Congress Policy Paper on Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) 3.0” and “The Nigerian Workers’ Charter of Demands on Just Transition”.

Ajaero expressed concern that Nigeria’s earlier Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 1.0 and 2.0) failed to capture workers’ interests.

He said that trade unions, labour standards, and decent work must remain central to NDC 3.0.

According to him, climate change is fundamentally a workplace issue, as it directly threatens jobs and workers’ health.

“Therefore, decent work, fair wages, and social protection must guide Nigeria’s Just Transition framework,” he said.

The NLC president commended both local and international partners for supporting the publications, and urged workers and activists to use them as tools for advocacy.

He, however, cautioned that workers must “organise, not agonise” in the struggle for climate and social justice in Nigeria.

In her remarks, Mrs. Omotenioye Majekodunmi, Director-General of the Nigerian National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), praised the NLC and ILO for their efforts.

Majedkodumi, who was represented by Mrs. Jummai Vandu, a Climate Change Specialist, described the NDC 3.0 as a strategic investment plan aligned with Nigeria’s National Development Plan and global climate targets.

She explained that NDC 3.0 provides clear emission reduction targets, promotes renewable energy, and embeds labour rights, ensuring that social dialogue and worker protection remain central to Nigeria’s climate transition.

Majekodumi reiterated NCCC`s commitment to implement transparent carbon market frameworks, operationalise the Climate Change Fund, and provide social safety nets and retraining programmes to guarantee a just transition for Nigerian workers.

Also speaking, Ms. Inviolata Chinyangarara, ILO Senior Specialist, commended the NLC for producing the advocacy documents.

She noted their importance in integrating workers’ concerns into Nigeria’s climate change response and sustainable development agenda.

Chinyangarara said the publications would enrich national discourse, ensuring workers are protected throughout Nigeria’s transition to a low-carbon economy while promoting decent work, social protection, and equal opportunities.

She stressed the need to prioritise job creation, skills development, and capacity building, particularly for vulnerable groups, so that no worker is left behind in Nigeria’s climate transition.

The specialist pledged the ILO’s continued support through engagement in NDC revisions, Just Transition guidelines, and international knowledge sharing, adding that Nigeria’s example should inspire other African nations.

Mr. Ezekiel Adudu, Director of Special Duties and Projects at the Ministry of Labour and Employment, described the policy paper as a blueprint for an inclusive transition, emphasising that no worker should be excluded.

Adudu reaffirmed the government’s commitment, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, to partner with international bodies in ensuring that climate policies promote sustainable practices and protect workers’ rights across all sectors of the economy.

By Joan Nwagwu

Petroleum technologists honour Shell boss with Award of Excellence

Michael Simire
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Petroleum technologists honour Shell boss with Award of Excellence

The Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, presented an Award of Excellence to the Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Ltd (SNEPCo) Ronald Adams, even as it commended Shell for supporting Nigerian content development in the energy industry.

The award, which was handed over by PETAN Chairman, Wole Ogunsanya, during a courtesy call at SNEPCo office, describes the managing director as an “astute and visionary technocrat,” in apparent reference to his efforts to sustain the achievements of SNEPCo in deep-water production since he came into the role in October last year.

SNEPCo
L-R: General Manager, Deepwater Oil, Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo) Iyke Nnoaham; SNEPCo’s Managing Director, Ronald Adams; Executive Chairman, Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), Wole Ogunsanya and PETAN’s Vice Chairman, Obidike Uzu during a courtesy visit to Shell Headquarters at Eko Atlantic in Lagos

Ogunsanya said on Shell’s efforts to grow Nigerian content: “The history of local content in Nigeria is Shell. Apart from the fact that most of the people in the industry are ex-Shell, for some of us that work with the service companies, Shell gave us jobs that enabled us to build capacity. Shell has continued to play this role and PETAN remains ready to continue collaborating with Shell to raise local capacity.”

Adams expressed gratitude for the award, and commended PETAN member companies for contributing to the success of SNEPCo operations at Bonga “from first oil in 2005 to the production of the 1 billionth barrel in 2023.”

He said that investments by IOCs and independent producers in the energy industry would deliver lasting impact when organisations like PETAN leverage their experience and expertise for the overall development of the sector.

PETAN comprises over 100 indigenous technical oilfield service companies, with cumulative annual revenues running into millions of dollars. The organisation celebrated its 30th anniversary last year.

ITREALMS Media joins PREVENT Alliance to address e-waste, promote sustainable best practices

Michael Simire
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ITREALMS Media joins PREVENT Alliance to address e-waste, promote sustainable best practices

ITREALMS Media has officially joined the PREVENT Waste Alliance, a global network of organisations committed to minimising waste, eliminating pollutants, and maximising the reutilisation of resources in the economy.

Anika Schumann on behalf of the global Secretariat of the PREVENT Waste Alliance based in Bonn, Germany, confirmed ITREALMS Media’s membership via email, stating: “First of all, I would like to officially inform you that your membership has been confirmed by the Steering Committee and that your organisation is a member of the PREVENT Waste Alliance now. Welcome!”

Remmy Nweke
Ogbuefi Remmy Nweke, Lead Consulting Strategist/Group Executive Editor at ITREALMS Media

As a member of the PREVENT Alliance, ITREALMS Media will work closely with the alliance to promote sustainability and reduce waste.

According to Ogbuefi Remmy Nweke, Lead Consulting Strategist/Group Executive Editor at ITREALMS Media, “We believe that our membership in this esteemed alliance will enhance our capacity to address environmental challenges and provide opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing with like-minded organisations.”

Nweke further said, “We are excited to join the PREVENT Alliance and work with other members to promote sustainability and reduce waste. We believe that our collective efforts will have a significant impact on the environment and contribute to a more circular economy.”

The PREVENT Alliance focuses on various areas, including plastics, e-waste, organic waste, and circular economy, among others. ITREALMS Media looks forward to engaging with the alliance’s working groups and contributing to the development of innovative solutions to waste management challenges.

ITREALMS Media, through ITREALMS E-Waste Dialogue initiative since 2020, aims to raise awareness about the environmental and health impacts of electronic waste, promote sustainable e-waste management practices, and advocate for policies and regulations that support a circular economy.

Uzbekistan unveils official slogan for CITES CoP20

Michael Simire
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Uzbekistan unveils official slogan for CITES CoP20

With less than 100 days remaining until the opening of the 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES CoP20) or World Wildlife Conference, the countdown has officially begun. On Wednesday, August 20, 2025, the host country Uzbekistan unveiled the official slogan for the landmark event: “CITES at 50 in Samarkand: Bridging Nature and People.”

The slogan reflects both a historic milestone – marking the 50th anniversary of the Convention – and the unique role that Samarkand will play as a meeting point of civilisations, cultures, and conservation efforts. Set to take place from November 24 to December 5, 2025, CITES CoP20 is expected to bring together thousands of scientific, legal, enforcement and trade experts representing governments, intergovernmental organisations, non-governmental organisations, private sector entities, youth networks and more from across the globe.

Ms. Ivonne Higuero CITES
CITES Secretary-General, Ivonne Higuero

The announcement was made in Tashkent by Mr. Aziz Abdukhakimov, Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan, who emphasised the deeper meaning behind the chosen phrase.

“This is more than a slogan. It encapsulates our vision for the future – where conservation is not seen as separate from people, but as a shared path forward,” said Mr. Abdukhakimov. “Samarkand, with its centuries-old tradition of connecting East and West, will serve as a fitting venue to celebrate CITES’ 50-year journey and shape its course for the years to come.”

The unveiling comes on the heels of Uzbekistan’s recent launch of the CoP20 logo, which drew global praise for blending natural symbols like the Argali and Rhodiola semenovii with Samarkand’s iconic and historical architecture. Together, the logo and the new slogan place a clear focus on the link between biodiversity and sustainable use – a core principle of the CITES framework.

Ms. Ivonne Higuero, CITES Secretary-General, welcomed the announcement: “As we mark half a century of international collaboration through CITES, this slogan captures the spirit of CITES and the role it plays in bringing 184 countries and the European Union to promote co-existence between people and wildlife interlinking science and policy and conserving these species of animals and plants for future generations.

“It reminds us that effective conservation of wild fauna and flora must be grounded in dialogue, shared purpose, and practical action. We thank Uzbekistan for offering not only a location for our next CoP, but a powerful message to guide it.”

As the 20th World Wildlife Conference, CITES CoP20 is especially significant: beyond commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Convention, it arrives at a time of intensifying pressures on wildlife due to habitat loss, overexploitation, wildlife crime, all exacerbated by the triple planetary crisis of climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss. Decisions taken in Samarkand will influence global wildlife policy for years to come, including potential amendments to species listings and strengthening implementation measures.

Uzbekistan’s hosting of CoP20 also represents a growing recognition of Central Asia’s vital role in global biodiversity conservation. Samarkand, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, offers a backdrop of stunning historical significance and unique wildlife such as the Caspian monitor, the Eurasian scops owl and the Turkestan lynx.

As the world looks toward November, preparations are accelerating. Proposals for amendments to the CITES Appendices have been submitted, the CoP20 agenda is taking shape, and Samarkand is preparing to open its gates to a global community united by a common cause.

For CITES, for Uzbekistan, and for the planet, the road to CoP20 is well underway – with less than 100 days left to a historic gathering that promises to not only bridge nature and people but also strengthen the Convention’s achievement of its Strategic Vision – for a world where all international wildlife trade is legal and sustainable. 

Govt commits to providing tertiary institutions mini grids by 2026

Michael Simire
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Govt commits to providing tertiary institutions mini grids by 2026

The Federal Government on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, in Lagos assured Nigerians that it would make tertiary institutions in the country energy sufficient by 2026 through provision of mini grids.

The Minister of Education, Mr. Tunji Alausa, gave the assurance at the inauguration of a newly constructed Olatunji Bello Auditorium at the Lagos State University (LASU), Epe Campus.

Tunji Alausa
Minister of Education, Mr. Tunji Alausa

The auditorium was provided by Mr. Olatunji Bello, a former Commissioner for Environment in Lagos State, and husband of LASU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello.

Alausa said that provision of the mini grids was a commitment by President Bola Tinubu to  students, universities and other tertiary  institutions.

“By this time next year, literally all tertiary institutions in the country will have mini-grids that will make them energy sufficient.

“With energy sufficiency, we would unleash the capabilities of our youths in the area of research, technology and everything they do.

“Join me in thanking President Tinubu for his commitment to education development,” he said.

Alausa said that a five-megawatt mini-grid had already been approved for LASU’s Epe Campus.

He added that the Tertiary Education Trust Fund  (TETFund) would donate 11MW mini grid for the main campus of LASU at Ojo.

The minister praised Olatunji Bello for building the 550-seat ultra-modern auditorium, saying that it was a testament to how committed Nigerian could be in shaping institutions and inspiring generations.

Lagos State Gov., Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who inaugurated the auditorium, praised Bello for fulfilling his promise to invest in education.

“This edifice is more than a building; it is a beacon of knowledge, creativity, cultural exchange and intellectual engagement,” Sanwo-Olu said.

Sanwo-Olu said that, in the next 60 days, his administration would inaugurate the largest university library in Nigeria at the Ojo Campus of LASU.

He said that the library would be inaugurated alongside other facilities.

“We remain resolute in our commitment to strengthening LASU’s place as Nigeria’s foremost state university.

“With projects such as these, our vision of a globally-competitive institution is within reach,” he added.

In his goodwill message, a former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, described Bello’s action as a demonstration of gratitude and selflessness.

According to him, many Nigerians spend hundreds of millions of Naira  on parties for milestone birthdays, but Bello decided to channel resources into a project that will benefit the education sector  and the general  society.

Osoba described Bello as a man of honour who had remained committed to services to humanity and education development. 

In his address, Bello said that the gesture was his way of investing in posterity.

“The government alone cannot do it. Private individuals who have the means should invest in public tertiary education to create more opportunities.

“When God gives you a vision, God will also provide the means in miraculous ways.

“God’s miracle, sometimes, comes by having some brilliant ideas suddenly deposited in your mind,” he said.

He noted that construction of the auditorium began in 2021 with the support of  his friends, who converted their intended birthday gifts into cash donations for the purpose.

Bello said that he remained committed to providing the facility and even sold his property to ensure its completion.

Bello urged LASU students to make maximum use of the facility.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of LASU, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, said that the facility represented more than architectural beauty.

“It is a strategic investment in academic excellence and institutional identity.

“It reinforces the fundamental truth that when we invest in education, we invest in tomorrow’s leaders.

“Bello has, through word and deed, inscribed his name in the permanent record of LASU’s growth story.

“This is making infrastructure  available and accessible for seamless academic and administrative operations,” she said.

She said that her administration had made  strategic investments in expanding and upgrading facilities at the Epe campus of LASU. 

“This includes construction of Iraye Gate House, completion of the first phase comprehensive fencing and proper demarcation between the campus and the adjoining Nigerian Army Barracks.”

She thanked her husband for providing the auditorium, giving that assurance that the facility would be optimally utilised, meticulously maintained and deeply cherished.

By Henry Oladele

Experts advocate clean energy for cooking

Michael Simire
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Experts advocate clean energy for cooking

Leading medical and environmental experts have urged the adoption of clean cooking energy to tackle household air pollution and protect public health.

The call was made at a stakeholders’ forum on clean fuel and cookstove implementation on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, in Lagos.

Clean fuel and cookstove
Participants at the stakeholders’ forum on clean fuel and cookstove implementation in Lagos

The initiative is funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), in partnership with New York University, LASUTH, and LASUCOM.

The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) also serves as a partner in the project.

Delivering a goodwill message, Prof. Akin Abayomi, Lagos Commissioner for Health, commended the collaboration and described clean cooking as a pressing public health necessity.

Represented by Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Abayomi stressed that the gathering was focused on implementing practical clean energy solutions.

He noted that household air pollution causes millions of premature deaths annually, disproportionately affecting women and children in vulnerable communities.

Abayomi added that clean cooking reduces maternal risks, childhood pneumonia, and long-term illnesses such as hypertension and dementia.

He also highlighted additional benefits, including reduced deforestation, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and household economic savings.

He emphasised the need for affordable, culturally acceptable clean fuels, while encouraging local industries to drive sustainable adoption.

Prof. Ololade Wright of LASUCOM and LASUTH noted that millions of Nigerians still depended on harmful fuels such as firewood, charcoal, sawdust, dung, and kerosene.

She warned that these fuels release fumes damaging the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, raising risks of hypertension, stroke, and pneumonia, especially for women and children.

Wright called for government action to increase awareness and expand access to alternatives such as bioethanol stoves, LPG, and renewable cooking technologies.

She said the Clean Fuel, Clean Cookstove Project aims to drive large-scale transition from polluting fuels to sustainable, affordable clean options for households.

“Clean cooking is a pathway to healthier families, cleaner air, and climate resilience, and Nigeria cannot afford delay,” Wright stressed.

Prof. Gbenga Ogedegbe of New York University added that household air pollution is linked not only to respiratory disease but also to hypertension, dementia, and impaired child cognition.

He noted that the health burden is higher in low-resource countries like Nigeria, underscoring the urgency of the project.

Dr Tunde Ajayi, LASEPA’s General Manager, emphasised environmental benefits, stating that clean cooking improves household environments, reduces climate impacts, and enhances Lagos air quality.

He said monitoring shows that cutting emissions from cooking, traffic, and generators directly improves the air people breathe.

Ajayi added that the project supports both cleaner energy and local innovations in air quality monitoring.

The experts urged governments at all levels to expand awareness, ensure fuel accessibility, and strengthen policies for widespread adoption of clean cooking.

The aim remains to reduce household air pollution and its severe health and environmental consequences.

By Fabian Ekeruche

Delta, REA sign MoU to drive renewable energy

Michael Simire
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Delta, REA sign MoU to drive renewable energy

The Delta State Government on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to boost renewable energy, and expand electricity access to underserved communities.

The MoU was signed in Abuja at the REA State-by–State Roundtable Engagement with Delta with the theme, “Unlocking Distributed Energy Investments for Industrial Growth and inclusive Access.”

Sheriff Oborevwori
Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State

Speaking at the ceremony, Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori emphasised  the willingness of the state government to participate in impactful programmes and offered by REA.

“I must emphasise that we view these programmes not only as energy access initiatives, but as powerful tools for inclusive economic growth, enterprise development, and rural transformation.

“Access to renewable energy is a cornerstone for unlocking productivity, attracting investments, and enhancing the livelihoods of our people, particularly in communities that have long been upset and underserved.

“Delta is committed to leveraging these programmes to accelerate the delivery of energy solutions that align with our medium-term development plan 2024-2027 and the more agenda of Delta.

“We believe that the outcomes of these initiatives will drive meaningful improvements in healthcare delivery, education, local industries, and job creation across Delta,” he said.

The governor also said that renewable energy evolution had already begun, adding that Delta would not be left behind.

According to him, Delta has begun, solar, wind, hydro, and biomass are no longer the underdog sources of energy as the International Energy Agency in its 2024 journal reports that renewable energy accounts for 90 per cent of global power capacity.

“On our part, Delta in its bid to key into Federal Government’s Energy Plan that ensures access to electricity, renewable energy means and private sector collaboration, has enacted the Delta State Energy Power Sector Law 2024.

“The policy seeks to address electricity sector challenges, improve electricity access, enhance investors’ confidence, and promote sustainable energy development,” he said.

Oborevwori said that Delta through strategic planning had established 8.5 megawatts independent power plant in Asaba designed as an embedded power system to feed government establishments.

According to him, plans are also underway to replicate same template in the state tertiary institutions to meet the energy needs of educational facilities.

He said that similarly, the state government had equally committed huge financial resources in rural electrification schemes intended to rehabilitate and reinforce existing dilapidated electricity networks.

“Extend electricity network to rural communities not yet covered or connected to the national grid.

“As encapsulated in our energy policy, Delta is ready to widen its operations in the electricity sector.

“Therefore, we aim for the establishment of solar power mini-grids, solar farm for rural communities, hybrid solar wind systems, or any other renewable energy hybrid system for housing and coastal estates.

“The goal is to accelerate energy assets for on-site and on-the-site communities through deployment of renewable energy solutions in Delta State.”

The governor, however, assured the deployment partners and prospective investors that the state was irrevocably committed to investments in the energy sector.

“We assure prospective investors of our determination to invest in the energy sector.

“We thank the World Bank, the REA, the renewable energy services companies, the energy ecosystem investors, and all other physical stakeholders that are here present for this collaborative opportunity.

“I assure you of our readiness to work closely to identify and develop viable projects that will yield sustainable and far-reaching impacts.

“Once again, I welcome you all and look forward to productive engagements, ‘’ he said.

The Managing Director of REA, Mr. Abba Aliyu, said that increased electrification of off- grid communities in Delta had the potential to attract $158 million investments.

Aliyu said that expanding powered off-grid sites would significantly boost the country’s GDP, with a projected annual increase of 2.9 billion dollars and create 31, 220 new jobs in Delta.

He said that REA had identified 471 potential mini-grid sites in Delta with Ndokwa East Local Government Area accounting for over 83 locations.

According to him, the mini-grids in Delta can potentially power more than 386, 046 people and 120, 000 buildings across the state.

He said’’179 communities in the state have more than 100 connections for private sector mini-grid developers adding these sites are attractive and have high impact investment.

“ On average, a village in Delta can have 255 connections. This density makes the state very attractive for mini-grid investments,” he said.

Mr Frank Nwaebo, Director Renewable Energy, Ministry of  Energy in Delta, while presenting  renewable opportunities, said that the state had immense potential for renewable energy particularly solar power.

Nwaebo said that with an annual average solar radiance of 4.53 kilowatts per hour, making Delta the highest in the South-South region.

“ The growing demand for and rise of prices of fossil-related fuel stock such as natural gas, coal and diesel have resulted to urgent need for diversification  if  the state must achieve a cheaper and wider energy supply mix, ‘’ he said.

According to him, Delta government has inaugurated a Renewable Energy Policy Roadmap (2023-2028) to guide the state’s transition to renewable energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

By Constance Athekame

Policy instability hurts oil investment – PENGASSAN

Michael Simire
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Policy instability hurts oil investment – PENGASSAN

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has cautioned that ongoing policy instability is discouraging investment in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

Mr. Festus Osifo, President of PENGASSAN, raised the concern on Wednesday at the opening of the 4th Petroleum and Energy Advancement and Leadership Summit (PEALS 2025), held in Abuja.

Festus Osifo
Mr. Festus Osifo, PENGASSAN’s President

The summit’s theme is “Building a Resilient Oil and Gas Sector in Nigeria.”

Osifo noted that frequent amendments to key laws, particularly the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), had created uncertainty for investors.

“Amendments are inevitable but must not be haphazard or intermittent.

“Businesses need stable policies for long-term planning, job protection, and sustainable production,” he said.

While expressing concern about erratic legislative changes, he commended recent executive orders signed by President Bola Tinubu aimed at boosting oil production, advancing gas development, and streamlining contracting processes.

He described them as “steps in the right direction.”

On worker safety, Osifo emphasised that “no job is worth a life,” stressing the need for strong safety procedures, continuous training, and transparent reporting across both offshore and onshore facilities.

He referenced last 2024 helicopter crash near Bonny that claimed the lives of three PENGASSAN members.

Turning to environmental concerns, he called for an immediate end to gas flaring, cleanup of polluted areas, and stricter accountability for oil operators.

He stressed that Nigeria must protect its land, rivers, and air.

“Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards are now critical for global competitiveness. Sustainability reporting must sit alongside financial statements,” Osifo added.

The PENGASSAN President said the summit would explore pathways to sustaining production recovery, curbing pipeline vandalism, resolving contract delays, developing marginal fields, and bridging funding gaps.

He also pledged the union’s continued commitment to members’ welfare, including leadership development, health programmes, wealth creation, and estate planning.

In his remarks, Group CEO of NNPC Ltd, Mr Bayo Ojulari, lauded PENGASSAN’s leadership and described PEALS as a strategic platform aligning labour, industry, and government to shape Nigeria’s energy future.

He reaffirmed NNPC’s focus on innovation, collaboration, and safety, noting that partnerships with unions and regulators were essential to building a globally competitive oil and gas sector.

Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, also addressed the summit, urging Nigeria to lead, not just follow, in the global shift toward cleaner energy and ethical industry practices.

“Resilience in oil and gas is not only about infrastructure or investment, but about people, labour policy, and empowering the workforce,” Dingyadi said.

He reiterated the ministry’s commitment to tripartite dialogue, decent work, skills development, and fair wages.

He further emphasised that health and safety must be “non-negotiable pillars” of a resilient energy system and urged companies to prioritise ESG compliance.

He called on unions to pursue constructive engagement and on government agencies to streamline regulations that balanced labour welfare with investor confidence.

By Joan Nwagwu

Stakeholders review renewable energy curriculum to boost access

Michael Simire
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Stakeholders review renewable energy curriculum to boost access

Stakeholders on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, converged on Abuja to address Nigeria’s energy deficit and promote wider access to renewable energy.

They met at a High-Level Dissemination Session on the Enhanced Solar Energy Curriculum, with the theme: “Green Skills and Political Will in the Renewable Energy Curriculum Review Initiative in Nigeria”.

Renewable energy
Participants at the High-Level Dissemination Session on the Enhanced Solar Energy Curriculum

The event was organised by INCLUDE, the Knowledge Platform on Inclusive Development Policies in Africa.

The platform supports research, shares knowledge with policymakers and practitioners, and organises international policy dialogues on inclusive development in Africa and the Netherlands.

Executive Director of INCLUDE, Dr Anika Altaf, thanked partners for their support, noting that the initiative would not only address energy challenges but also boost job creation.

Knowledge Manager at INCLUDE, Ms Victoria Manya, said the collaboration was driven by evidence-based research underscoring Africa’s need for a just energy transition.

She explained that such transition would expand energy access, create jobs, and strengthen workforce capacity through quality Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

Manya gave a background of INCLUDE’s partnership with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), stressing the role of soft infrastructure and strong institutional partnerships.

She also noted the involvement of the House Committee on Renewable Energy, chaired by Rep. Victor Ogene.

The collaboration, she added, involved research studies which supported the development of the curricula, now approved for adoption by TVET institutions nationwide.

Ogene commended INCLUDE, National Board for Technical Education(NBTE), sector experts and academics for their contributions.

She stated that the work had triggered a rethink of Nigeria’s skills architecture with socio-economic benefits, from promoting local content in the green economy to generating jobs.

He reiterated the House Committee’s commitment to laws and policies that support green jobs, workforce development and renewable energy skill acquisition.

NBTE Executive Secretary, Prof. Idris Bugaje, said Nigeria’s long-standing partnership with the Netherlands had driven transformation in the education sector.

He noted that the enhanced renewable energy curricula would position Nigeria’s workforce to participate in the fourth industrial revolution.

Bugaje urged government and stakeholders to support the implementation of the curricula to enable Nigeria’s smooth transition to clean energy.

Earlier, Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Dr Abba Aliyu, said his agency, with government and development partners, had rolled out several programmes to address the country’s energy deficit.

He, however, stressed the need for a capable renewable energy workforce and stronger private sector investments to drive Nigeria’s energy transition agenda.

He commended NBTE for developing the enhanced renewable energy curricula.

A highlight of the session was the symbolic handover of the commemorative curriculum set by Bugaje, followed by the official flag-off of a Training-of-Trainers (ToT) exercise to be conducted by NBTE in partnership with INCLUDE.

The ToT is designed to equip more than 300 TVET trainers across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones with the skills to implement the curricula.

According to organisers, the training sessions will hold in Lagos from Aug. 25 to 26 and in Kano from Sept. 2 to 3.

By Abigael Joshua

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