In November, 2021 the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) joined other global stakeholders at the 26th iteration of the United Nations Conference of Parties (COP). With stakeholders, advocates and change-makers from Nigeria and across the world present to deepen conversations on renewable energy and climate change, discussions centered around climate finance and the need for accelerated impact in the off-grid sector.
The Honourable Minister of State, Power Goddy Jedy-Agba who led the Nigerian delegation in the power sector commended the Federal Government for the continued investments and achievements in the power sector, especially the off-grid sub-sector.
In his remarks, the Minister also explained that the recent submission of the reviewed Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) by the Nigerian government is another testament to the commitment of President Muhammadu Buhari on renewable energy and energy transition.
The Minister also assured Nigerians of the critical role the Federal Ministry of Power will continue to play as the nation journeys toward clean, sustainable power for all Nigerians.
Led by the MD/CEO of REA, Engr. Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, the Agency recorded a productive outing at the Nigerian Pavilion with a Side Event hosted by the REA, and moderated by Anita Otubu, the Head, Project Management Unit of the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP).
Engr. Salihijo collaborated with a team of panelists which included the Director, Renewable and Rural Power Access, Federal Ministry of Power Engr. Faruk Yusuf; the Executive Director, Rural Electrification Agency (REF) Dr. Sanusi Ohiare; the Executive Director, Technical Services Engr. Barka Sajou as well as the Adviser on Climate Finance and Capital Markets at the Climate Finance Accelerator (CFA), Obi Ugochuku.
While charting a course for accelerated impact and deliberate funding of clean energy projects and programmes, it is already obvious that resolutions and timelines designed at this year’s event will go a long way towards ensuring a smooth energy transition.
Themed "Accelerating Finance for Sustainable Low Carbon Opportunities in Nigeria", the Side Event allowed the Agency to showcase its renewable energy projects across all programmes as mandated by the Federal Government. Attendees and key stakeholders at the event gained access to first hand information on low carbon opportunities in Nigeria through the REA.
The Nigeria Electrification Project was adequately showcased as well as the myriad opportunities open to stakeholders under the Rural Electrification Fund (REF) and the Solar Power Naija (SPN) programme designed as part of the Economic Sustainability Plan of the Federal Government of Nigeria.