Nigeria has reaffirmed its dedication to an inclusive and fair clean energy transition, focusing on the integration of social equity and workforce development in climate policies. This commitment was reiterated by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, at the International Energy Agency (IEA) Global Commission on People-Centred Clean Energy Transitions, held on the sidelines of the G-20 Brasil 2024 summit.
Speaking virtually at the event, Mrs. Onyejeocha detailed Nigeria’s efforts in balancing economic empowerment with its clean energy agenda. She emphasized that the country’s clean energy initiatives, especially in the transport sector through the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (Pi-CNG), aim not only to reduce carbon emissions but also to create 25,000 green jobs. “In Nigeria, our clean energy journey has additional push with a focus on the transport sector through the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative,” she said.
The Minister outlined Nigeria’s approach to ensuring workers in traditional energy sectors are not left behind in this transition. Through the Labour Employment and Empowerment Program (LEEP), the Federal Government is actively training women and youth in green economy skills, including solar panel installation, solar kiosk setup, greenhouse farming, and recycling. She explained, “This program will equip them with skills to participate in the green economy, with training focused on areas such as Solar Kiosk and Solar Panels Installation, Greenhouse farming, and Recycling.”
Highlighting the importance of integrating workforce training into the country’s climate policy, Mrs. Onyejeocha stressed that climate action must be aligned with economic empowerment. “We must provide opportunities for our people to thrive in this new era,” she remarked. Additionally, she stated that existing automotive technicians and mechanics are being upskilled to convert petrol-powered vehicles to CNG-powered ones, a move seen as pivotal for both Nigeria’s climate goals and its workforce development.
Onyejeocha stressed that fairness is at the heart of Nigeria’s clean energy policies. She noted that the principle of fairness guides all efforts, particularly in protecting and empowering the workforce. “It is imperative that we ensure this transition leaves no one behind, particularly those whose livelihoods have been intertwined with the energy sector for decades.”
Nigeria’s clean energy initiatives, the Minister emphasized, serve as a blueprint for global leaders, showcasing how climate policies can be paired with social and economic advancements. With a strong focus on inclusive growth, especially for women and youth, these policies are designed to ensure that marginalized groups benefit from the emerging opportunities in the green economy.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s commitment to a sustainable future is clear, as the country continues to position itself as a leader in ensuring that the clean energy transition is both just and inclusive.
