By Oluseye Ojo
Experts have said there is an urgent need for a comprehensive national strategy to tackle Nigeria’s energy challenges in order to ensure synergy in the pursuit of energy security.
They spoke yesterday at the third Dr. Diran Fawibe annual lecture series, themed, “Development of National Framework and Partnerships for Sustainable Energy Access and Security,” held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Oyo State.
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Keynote speaker, Mr. Austin Avuru, emphasised the need to develop internal refining capabilities, leveraging the nation’s rich resources to combat energy poverty.
“We must plan for the inevitable and create a framework that ensures energy security,” he stated.
He advocated increased efforts towards energy sufficiency, accessibility and affordability.
Chief Executive Officer, International Energy Services Limited, Bayo Ige, stated: “As a nation striving for economic growth and energy independence, we must engage in forward-looking conversations and collaborative actions that will shape the policies and partnership needed to ensure a sustainable energy future.’’
Dr. Fawibe, who is the Group Chairman of International Energy Services, echoed the sentiment. He stated that addressing the consequences of energy poverty, such as job creation and access to healthcare could only be achieved through robust partnerships between government, private sector and academia.
He urged stakeholders to collaborate on innovative research and technology to find viable solutions to Nigeria’s energy woes.
Former Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof. Rahman Bello, who chaired the programme, appealed to well-resourced individuals to invest in research and development.
“Our challenges are unique and we need homegrown solutions,” he said.
The Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Peter Olapegba, stressed that energy serves as the lifeblood of modern economies, crucial for industrialisation and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He noted that energy’s availability and accessibility are essential for improving the quality of life in Nigeria.
The Director of Centre for Petroleum, Energy, Economics and Law (CPEEL), UI, Prof. Olugbenga Falode, described energy security as a shared national vision.
The programme also featured a panel discussion moderated by Mrs. Moroti Adedoyin-Adeyinka, where experts agreed that, despite challenges, there is hope and potential for growth within Nigeria’s energy sector.
They called for a national framework and collaborative efforts, adding that Nigeria’s energy future hinges on unity and innovative partnership among all stakeholders.
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