Govs sign MoU with China to end energy crisis in Nigeria

Governors of the 36 states of the federation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China to boost renewable energy and end the current energy crisis in Nigeria. The pact signed at the Secretariat of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) in Abuja on Thursday following the power generation challenges in the country. Gombe State governor […]

Governors of the 36 states of the federation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China to boost renewable energy and end the current energy crisis in Nigeria.

The pact signed at the Secretariat of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) in Abuja on Thursday following the power generation challenges in the country.

Gombe State governor and Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, Alhaji Inuwa Yahaya who spoke on behalf of the NGF Chairman and Kwara State governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, said the MoU signalled a critical step in strengthening the institutional framework for sub-national energy governance through fostering energy security, efficiency, and economic development across the states.

“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.”

Also, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, said, ”’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,” he added.

In his remarks, the Director General of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Dr. Abdullateef Shittu, said, ”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 Chairman of the China Energy Commission, Dr.Song Liang pledged full implementation of the Mou and ensure full cooperation between Nigeria and China.