Reps panel: Nigeria must be intentional about renewable energy investment… world is changing

The house of representatives committee on renewable energy says Nigeria needs to be “intentional” in investing in the renewable energy sector.

Afam Ogene, chairman of the committee, spoke on Wednesday at the panel’s inaugural meeting.

Ogene said while the country is blessed with natural resources, the government can implement initiatives to protect citizens from their harmful impacts.

“God in his infinite wisdom has not only blessed us with natural mineral deposits and resources, He has also given us the wisdom, intellect and ingenuity, to protect ourselves and our environment from harmful impacts of some of these resources,” he said.

The lawmaker said natural resources have been abused such that they have become harmful and destructive to the environment.

“Records, research and science have all shown, evidentially, that fossil fuels are one of such friendly enemies of mankind,” he said.

“When we hear about climate change or gradual but steady destruction of the ozone layer, we in this part of the world may not relate practically to such seeming ‘abstract conversations’ that may not readily address our peculiar and immediate economic or socio-political challenges.

“But the world is changing and we as a people must not be left behind in taking actions that would protect our environment and ensure that we invest in technological developments that would better our tomorrow.

 “However, the devastating and harrowing experiences in the oil-rich Niger Delta area, occasioned by oil spillages, gas flaring, water and soil pollution that have continually destroyed agricultural activities and aquatic life in the region are constant and relatable dangers of the adverse impact of fossil energy on our environment.

“So, the global quest for a safer, sustainable and renewable energy, is an indication that we all agree that there is a need for a new way of doing things.”

The legislator said renewable energy is the future, noting that Nigeria and all stakeholders must step up and be “more intentional in investing in the renewable energy sector and technologies”.

In his remarks, Mustapha Abdullahi, director-general (DG) of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), said Nigeria needs to embrace renewable energy to key into the climate change Act.

He said the commission would support the committee to achieve its mandates.

“In any way you want us to key into your plan. we are here to support,” he said.

WATERWAYS PANEL PROMISES TO REVAMP AGENCY

Meanwhile, the house committee on national inland waterways authority has said would revamp the operation of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA).

Ojema Ojotu, chairman of the committee, while addressing members of the panel, urged them to “show patriotism and commitment” by “fully” participating in the oversight activities.