Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, has reiterated the federal government’s commitment to addressing the manpower gap in the renewable energy (RE) industry.
The minister gave the reassurance on Saturday at the groundbreaking ceremony for the establishment of Barefoot Renewable Energy College in Kogi State.
Chief Nnaji said: “This college marks a significant moment in our national journey towards sustainable development and energy transition. Today, we are not just laying the foundation for a building; we are planting the seeds of innovation, sustainable progress, and a brighter future for our nation.
The establishment of this college shows the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology’s commitment to addressing the manpower gap in the Renewable Energy (RE) industry and harnessing our abundant energy resources through effective collaboration with the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN).
“The vision behind this college is very simple, yet very much consolidated; as it is focused on the establishment of a college of excellence that will equip our youth with skills, technical knowledge and academic proficiency and certification needed to drive the renewable energy sector.
“This college and academy will offer a robust and comprehensive curriculum that encompasses the various aspects of renewable energy, including solar, wind, hydro, bioenergy, etc. The students will benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, hands-on training, and a college comprised of leading experts in the field of energy.
“It is very pertinent to emphasize that the success of this institution will rely largely on the supports of the state government and the communities to ensure the nurture and growth of the wonderful initiative we are celebrating today.
“I, therefore, use this opportunity to solicit the full support of the indigenes and Kogi State Government in driving the process; through the creation of conducive environment for the sustainability of research, innovation, and practical applications of Renewable Energy Technologies (RETs) in the rural communities.”
Earlier in his address, the DG/CEO of Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha, said: “Today marks a significant milestone in our journey towards transitioning from fossil-based energy resources to renewable energy.
“Addressing the energy manpower gap is crucial for making substantial progress in this sector. The Barefoot Renewable Energy Academy aims to bridge the energy manpower gap, driving innovation, competence, and self-reliance in the renewable energy sector. In recent weeks, with the invaluable support of the Honourable Minister, my own Boss, Chief Uche Nnaji, we celebrated the groundbreaking ceremony for a solar panel module assembly plant in Akpugo, Nkanu West LGA, Enugu State. These efforts are aimed at driving innovation, competence, and self-reliance in the renewable energy sector.
“I must emphasis here that this project would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the Executive Governor of the state; my own Governor, His Excellency Ahmed Usman Ododo, who graciously provided a suitable ground to host this novel academy.
“Also, we must acknowledge the collaboration of our Supervising Ministry under the leadership of Chief Uche Nnaji and the host community.”