By Thompson Yamput
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo on Saturday laid the foundation of Renewable Energy College at the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, Okene .
A. Statement issued in Lokoja by Ododo’s Media Aide, Ismaila Isah, said present at groundbreaking ceremony held at the university were the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, and the Director General of Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi.
Speaking at groundbreaking ceremony held at the university, Ododo commended President Bola Tinubu for the establishment of the Barefoot Renewable Energy College in Kogi state.
Ododo expressed optimism that the project would tremendously help in addressing negative impact of climate change by promoting renewable energy sources and adaptation in Nigeria.
“It’s my belief that the Renewable Energy College will empower the marginalized segments of the society by fostering gender equality, and enhancing local resilience,” the governor said.
In his remarks, the minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, said that the groundbreaking ceremony for Nigeria’s first Renewable Energy College marks a significant moment towards sustainable development and energy transition in the country.
Nnaji maintained that the establishment of the college shows the commitment of the Ministry in addressing manpower gap in the renewable energy industry.
He said it was a step towards harnessing abundant energy resources through effective collaboration with industry players under the coordination of Energy Commission of Nigeria.
According to him, the success of the college will rely largely on the support of the Kogi state government, the host institution and community to ensure its sustainability.
The minister commended Gov Ododo for his immense contribution towards making the Renewable Energy College a reality and building a legacy that would benefit generations to come.
The Director General, Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi said: “The Renewable Energy College is a significant milestone in the journey towards the delivery of renewable energy solution in Nigeria.
“The initiative will not only bridge the gap in manpower development but will also enhance knowledge base in innovation and opportunities in renewable energy.” (ephemeralnews.ng)
