President Bola Tinubu has declared that Nigeria is ready to lead Africa’s renewable energy revolution following the commissioning of Africa’s first Barefoot Renewable Energy College and the Green Hydrogen Research and Demonstration Pilot Plant in Kogi State. The President said the new institution will help Nigeria build a skilled workforce for the clean energy sector while creating jobs and supporting the country’s transition to renewable energy.
Shettima represents Tinubu
Vice President Kashim Shettima represented Tinubu at the commissioning ceremony held at the Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, in Kogi State. According to a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, the college is the first of its kind in Africa. The institution is modelled after India’s vocational colleges, which train ordinary citizens as solar engineers.
“Nigeria assumes, from today, the position of pacesetter in renewable energy capacity development across Africa.”
Tinubu highlights benefits
Tinubu said the project would help Nigeria convert its abundant renewable energy resources into electricity, jobs and economic opportunities. He also praised the timely completion of the project, saying it reflects his administration’s commitment to delivering projects rather than abandoning them.
According to the President, the college will train technicians, installers, operators and maintenance professionals in renewable energy technologies. He added that graduates of the institution will receive internationally recognised certificates.
Call for partnerships
Tinubu urged development partners, private sector organisations, research institutions and international agencies to collaborate with the college. He assured stakeholders that Nigeria is ready to lead partnerships aimed at expanding renewable energy development across Africa.
The President also commended the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Kingsley Udeh, the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, and Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for their roles in delivering the project.
Stakeholders welcome project
Governor Ododo described the institution as a major investment in human capital development and sustainable economic growth. He said the college would strengthen Nigeria’s energy sector, attract investment and create employment opportunities for young people. Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Kingsley Udeh, said the project supports the Federal Government’s plan to build a knowledge-driven economy.
Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, disclosed that the college is equipped with smart classrooms, battery energy laboratories, a mini-grid simulation centre and energy efficiency laboratories to train renewable energy professionals.
The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Dr Ahmed Anaje, also welcomed the project, saying it would equip young Nigerians with valuable technical skills while contributing to national development and economic growth.
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