Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the establishment of the Barefoot Renewable Energy Academy in Kogi State.
Governor Ododo gave the commendation at the groundbreaking ceremony held at the Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara where he laid the foundation for the Academy along with the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji and the Director General of Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi.
The Governor expressed optimism that the project will help in addressing negative impact of climate change by promoting renewable energy sources and adaptation in Nigeria.
He noted that the Renewable Energy Academy aims to empower marginalized segments of the society by fostering gender equality, and enhancing local resilience.
In his address at the groundbreaking ceremony, the minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji said the groundbreaking ceremony for Nigeria’s first Renewable Energy Academy marks a significant moment towards sustainable development and energy transition in the country.
He maintained that the establishment of the college shows the commitment of the Ministry in addressing manpower gap in the renewable energy industry and a step towards harnessing abundant energy resources through effective collaboration with the Energy Commission of Nigeria.
He emphasized that the success of the Academy will rely largely on the support of the Kogi state government, the host institution and community to ensure its sustainability.
He commended Governor Ododo for his immense contribution towards making the Renewable Energy Academy a reality and building a legacy that will benefit generations to come.
In his remarks, the Director General, Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi said the Renewable Energy Academy is a significant milestone in the journey towards the delivery of renewable energy solution in Nigeria.
He noted that the initiative will not only bridge the gap in manpower development but will also enhance knowledge base in innovation and opportunities in renewable energy.
Ismaila Isah
Special Adviser on Media to the Governor
August 10, 2024
