By noah ocheni, Lokoja
The Kogi state Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo over the weekend laid the foundation stone of the Barefoot Renewable Energy College in Kogi State.
Governor Ododo performed the groundbreaking ceremony held at the Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara along with the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji and the Director General of Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi.
Governor Ododo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the establishment of the Barefoot Renewable Energy College in Kogi State.
He expressed optimism that the project will help in addressing negative impact of climate change by promoting renewable energy sources and adaptation in Nigeria.
He noted that the Renewable Energy College aims to empower marginalized segments of the society by fostering gender equality, and enhancing local resilience.
In his address at the groundbreaking ceremony, the minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji said 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 and a step towards harnessing abundant energy resources through effective collaboration with industry players under the coordination of Energy Commission of Nigeria.
He emphasized that 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 therefore commended Governor Ododo for his immense contribution towards making the Renewable Energy College a reality and building a legacy that will benefit generations to come.
In his remarks, 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.
He noted that the initiative will not only bridge the gap in manpower development but will also enhance knowledge base in innovation and opportunities in renewable energy.
