The Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation has convened a critical stakeholders’ workshop in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Monday, to discuss the effective integration of the Niger Delta region in the federal government’s energy transition policy.
The event brought together community leaders, activists, and experts to shape an inclusive energy future for the region.
Blueprint reports that the Nigerian government’s Energy Transition Plan aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060, with gas serving as a transition fuel.
Speaking, the Director, Partnership and Development, Yar’Adua Foundation, Mr. Amara Nwankpa, during a one-day workshop on shaping an inclusive energy future in the Niger Delta stressed that the plan should prioritise Niger Delta, which has long been affected by fossil fuel extraction.
Nwankpa said, “The global energy transition is underway, and the Niger Delta will be severely impacted by the shift away from fossil fuels if urgent steps are not taken”
“We are engaging community activists and leaders to discuss energy transition. As countries shift away from fossil fuels, demand for hydrocarbons and oil will decrease, leading to reduced revenues from fossil fuels, which Nigeria heavily relies on
“Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan identifies gas as a transition fuel, significant to the Niger Delta.”
Nwankpa emphasised that considering the needs and interests of the Niger Delta communities is crucial.
“This can only happen through engagement with these communities, listening to their needs, understanding their energy challenges, and ensuring fairness in planning.”
“Unfortunately, the current Energy Transition Plan lacks sufficient consultation with impacted communities.
“We urge Energy Transition Planners to listen to the people of the Niger Delta and prioritize community concerns. Closing the affordability gap is essential to ensure access to modern energy,” he added.
Dr. Nnimo Bassey, Executive Director of Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), also expressed concerns about Nigeria’s energy poverty.
According to him, “Despite abundant energy resources, only 40% of Nigerians have access to electricity, which is alarmingly low. Our energy production and distribution systems are inefficient.”