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Category: Energy

  • NESG wants oil and gas to drive Nigeria’s industrial growth

    NESG wants oil and gas to drive Nigeria’s industrial growth

    The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) has called for urgent steps to use Nigeria’s oil and gas resources to boost industrial development, create jobs, and grow the economy in a more inclusive way. 

    This call came during a high-level Pre-Summit dialogue held in Abuja with the theme, “Unlocking Industrial Growth Series: The Evolving Oil and Gas Ecosystem.”

    Engr. Mansur Ahmed, who serves as the Private Sector Co-Chair of the NESG Industrial Policy Commission, said the ongoing reforms in Nigeria provide a chance to rethink how the oil and gas industry can support long-term development and help the country move closer to building a strong industrial base.

    Mr. Kelvin Emmanuel, the Thematic Lead for Oil and Gas at NESG, pointed out that Nigeria still lags behind other African countries in industrial development. He lamented that Nigeria is ranked 8th on the African Industrialisation Index and 98th in the world on the UN’s Competitive Industrial Performance Index. 

    In addition, Nigeria’s manufacturing value per person is just $216, compared to $645 in South Africa and $524 in Egypt. He explained that instead of helping the country grow its industries, Nigeria’s oil wealth has mostly supported a system where crude oil is extracted and exported without much local processing. He said this needs to change and called for proper implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and better alignment with Africa’s Agenda 2063.

    Ms. Laura Ani, a legal expert and Co-Lead on Mining at the NESG Industrial Policy Commission, said Nigeria is at a turning point. She urged the country to stop seeing oil and gas only as a source of government revenue. 

    According to her, the sector must now be used to support industries and innovation. She said this requires better planning and strong links between how Nigeria manages its natural resources and how it grows its economy.

    Speaking from an academic perspective, Dr. Aminu Abdullahi Isyaku of the University of Abuja said there is a need for stronger partnerships between government, universities, and private companies. He said research and development (R&D) should be a priority, not a luxury. 

    Dr. Isyaku also called for better local content, meaning more goods and services in the sector should come from Nigerian businesses, and university courses should be designed to meet the needs of the industry.

    Mrs. Funmi Ogbue, CEO of Zigma Limited, shared insights from the private sector. She said Nigeria can learn from countries like Norway, where oil has been used to support industrial growth and technological development. 

    She said Nigeria needs consistent policies, long-term contracts, support for exports, and serious investment in research and development. Ogbue warned that efforts that are poorly planned or influenced by politics will not achieve the desired results. Instead, government, industry, and researchers must work closely together for real progress to happen.

    Dr. Taiwo Ogunleye, a law professor at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, said the main problem in the oil and gas sector is not the absence of good laws but the failure to implement existing ones. 

    Read Also: NESG backs $1tr economy target

    He said the Petroleum Industry Act already provides tools for industrial development, especially in areas like local business participation, licensing, research, and infrastructure. 

    According to him, fully enforcing these parts of the law can help move the country toward its industrial goals.

    At the end of the session, participants agreed on the need to push forward a strong and clear industrial policy that makes the oil and gas sector a foundation for technology-driven growth. They also said Nigeria must align its plans with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to compete effectively across the region.

  • ALSCON donates solar energy, playground to AL-RUSAL Cares Centre during pioneer graduation ceremony

    ALSCON donates solar energy, playground to AL-RUSAL Cares Centre during pioneer graduation ceremony

    The Aluminium Smelter Company Of Nigeria (ALSCON) in Ikot Abasi has donated a 3.5KVA solar panel for 24/7 independent power supply and modern standard play-ground for the kids at entrepreneurial development center known as AL-RUSAL CARES CENTER situated at Ferrostaal camp.

    The Managing Director, Mr. Dmitriy Zaviyalov made the donation on behalf of the Company during a graduation ceremony of the trainees’ pioneer batch which held on 1st August, 2025. 

    He urged the trainees to be committed to learning as ALSCON is providing requisite facilities that will make entrepreneurial development efforts easy for all.

    The Managing Director who was represented by the Director of Govt./Public Relations Directorate, Mr. Aleksandr Ashkinazi assured the people of ALSCON readiness to support initiatives that will position the Youths to be self-reliance in the nearest future.

    Speaking during the ceremony, the Clan Head of Ikpa Ibekwe, HRH. Etebom Akpan Nelson Inyang who was the Royal Father of the day applauded ALSCON for meaningfully empowering the youths with entrepreneurial skills needed for self-development.

    He commended ALSCON for donating solar and playground that will make the learning processes worthwhile. 

    Bunches of goodwill messages were delivered by noble leaders of Ikot Abasi  L.G.A including Hon. Ufok Frank, President, Mboho Ikpa Ibekwe and many others.

    Responding on behalf of the trainees, the Youth President of Ikpa Ibekwe Clan who is the Coordinator of programmes at the center, Comrade Sunday Etop thanked the Company for having the development of the Youths at heart.

    The event witnessed presentation of certificates, starter packets to graduates and practical demonstration of the various training programmes by the trainees.

    The ceremony was well attended by dignitaries among whom were Royal Fathers, Government officials, Community Leaders and host of others.

    In another development, the company also initiated industrial attachment training for youths of Ikot Abasi and it’s environs for them  to acquire self-reliance skills.

    During a brief safety and induction ceremony organized by HQSE Directorate, the Director, Mr. Uduak Obot urged the trainees to be conscious of safety as it is key to success in industrial environment.

    In his brief speech, the Managing Director, Mr. Dmitriy Zaviyalov stated that manpower development which is key to industrial growth and stability will assist the youths to be acquainted with industrial ethics and conducts. He commended the trainees for being steadfast and dedicated to the training programmes.

    Mr. Zaviyalov also opined that ALSON will not hesitate in contributing to human capacity development to improve cross-cultural communication skills of Ikot Abasi youths. 

    He assured Ikot Abasi people of RUSAL commitments to expose the youths to demand and challenges of work place. Mr. Zaviyalov who was represented by the Director, Govt./Public Relations, Mr. Alexander Ashkinazi noted  that the industrial attachment will help the youths gain practical experience, working ethics and develop work-based skills. 

    The various training programmes initiated by ALSCON such as Forklift, Welding, Mechanic and ICT will help in harnessing the potentials of the youths. 

    On behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Ubokudom Paulinus thanked ALSCON Management for impacting the youths through various human development programmes. He assured of the beneficiaries commitment to utilize the golden opportunity accorded them by RUSAL ALSCON.

    ALSCON also had earlier boosted the ICT capacity of it’s staff school with 25 computer set and 5 printers to The Managing Director, Mr. Dmitriy Zaviyalov stated that the donation is part of the company’s CSR aimed at elevating the status of the school. He extolled the school management, board and all the staff for unwavering commitments to delivering quality education to the students. 

    Read Also: RUSAL ALSCON Preserves a Team with Valuable Competencies

    The Director of Government and Public Relations Directorate of the Company, Mr. Aleksandr Ashkinazi who represented the Managing Director asserted that ALSCON prioritizes education and will continue to support meaningful initiative that contribute to manpower development of our youths.

    Responding on behalf of the school, the Board Chairman, Engr. Samuel Otu commended ALSCON Management for such huge intervention that has changed the narrative of the school already as NECO has approved the school as a Computer-Based Test Examination centre and the only one in Ikot Abasi L.G.A.

     He also thanked ALSCON Management for the renovation of the school and expressed optimism that the provision will enable ALSCON School students stand tall among their equals anyway in the world.

  • HEIRS Energies CEO to advocate Africa’s energy sufficiency at USAEF

    HEIRS Energies CEO to advocate Africa’s energy sufficiency at USAEF

    Heirs Energies, Africa’s largest indigenous-owned integrated energy company, has announced that its Chief Executive Officer, Osa Igiehon, will represent the company at the 2025 U.S.-Africa Energy Forum (USAEF), taking place on August 6–7, 2025, at the Post Oak Hotel in Houston, Texas.

    The Forum will bring together U.S. and African policymakers, financiers, and private sector leaders to discuss investment, innovation, and partnerships shaping Africa’s evolving energy landscape.

    Igiehon will deliver an Executive Insight and participate in the Explorers Town Hall session, sharing Heirs Energies’ perspective on how Africa can unlock its full energy potential responsibly and sustainably.

    The firm’s participation will spotlight its bold agenda of driving Africa’s transition from energy deficiency to energy sufficiency. With operations spanning across the Oil and Gas value chain, the company is investing in infrastructure and innovation to deliver reliable energy for homes, industries, and communities.

    “At Heirs Energies, we believe Africa’s exploration future will be written in two stories: frontier plays waiting to be unlocked, and brownfield excellence – the careful stewardship of fields that have been producing for decades. Our focus is to show that African-owned companies can responsibly manage these assets, apply world-class standards, and deliver shared prosperity,” Igiehon said.

    Underpinning this approach is the Africapitalism philosophy of Heirs Holdings, Heirs Energies’ parent company – the belief that the private sector must lead Africa’s development by investing for both economic and social returns.

    At the Forum, Heirs Energies will demonstrate how this principle translates into tangible action: responsible brownfield management, gas monetisation, and partnerships that empower local capacity while attracting global collaboration.

    Read Also: Heirs Energies, Renaissance commit to oil, gas devt.

    The company is also advancing gas commercialisation efforts, supplying gas to three power plants in Eastern Nigeria, while steadily building the infrastructure to further support Nigeria’s electrification drive.

    “Every molecule must count – not just for production, but for powering homes, fueling industry, and setting a benchmark for what indigenous operators can achieve,” Igiehon added.

    The U.S.-Africa Energy Forum will focus on creating an enabling environment for investment across hydrocarbons, gas, and renewables. Heirs Energies’ participation signals its commitment to partnerships that can deliver energy security for Africa while aligning with global sustainability goals

    Heirs Energies Limited is Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company, committed to meeting Africa’s unique energy needs while aligning with global sustainability goals.   Having a strong focus on innovation, environmental responsibility, and community development, Heirs Energies leads in the evolving energy landscape and contributes to a more prosperous Africa.

  • Experts urge bold reforms to integrate renewable energy into Nigeria’s power grid

    Experts urge bold reforms to integrate renewable energy into Nigeria’s power grid

    Stakeholders in Nigeria’s power sector have renewed calls for urgent and strategic reforms to enable the effective integration of renewable energy into the national electricity grid.

    The call was made at the 9th anniversary edition of the Nextier Power Dialogue, held under the theme “Pre-empting Resilience for Accelerated Renewable Energy Scaling.”

    Organised by The Electricity Hub and sponsored by the African Climate Foundation (ACF), the event brought together regulators, industry executives, policymakers, and private sector operators to explore Nigeria’s readiness for a renewable energy transition and the practical steps needed to achieve it.

    In a presentation highlighting the current challenges, Busayo Omofe, a consultant at Nextier, warned that Nigeria’s power grid remains fragile and ill-equipped to handle large-scale renewable integration.

    She emphasised the urgent need for investment in infrastructure upgrades and the development of technical capacity to support widespread adoption of clean energy.

    The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) was represented by Dr. Yusuf Ali, a commissioner at the agency, who noted that integrating renewable energy into the grid on a large scale would require significant improvements in both grid infrastructure and commercial demand.

    “Without a real-time Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, it will be difficult to monitor and balance variable renewable energy sources effectively,” he said.

    Dr. Ali disclosed that efforts are already underway through the World Bank-supported Delta Project, which aims to fully modernise grid control systems by 2026.

    Read Also: How bio technology can tackle Nigeria’s food crisis, by clerics, experts

    From the distribution perspective, Engr. Emmanuel Ogwuche of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) argued that renewable energy remains more expensive compared to traditional energy sources.

    He called on the government to create Renewable Energy Zones, offer financial subsidies, and encourage innovative financing models such as Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and Independent Power Producers (IPPs).

    According to him, these measures are essential for scaling up clean energy investments and reducing cost barriers for developers.

    Also speaking at the dialogue, Engr. Moses Ezirim of JA Solar stressed the importance of integrating technical solutions such as battery storage systems and smart meters.

    He also emphasised the need for greater policy clarity to attract private capital into the renewable energy space.

    Ezirim urged state governments to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and support small-scale energy producers, noting that a decentralised power model would better serve Nigeria’s rural and underserved communities.

    Olayemi Arowolo, Policy Manager at Nextier, said that data-driven planning and real-time monitoring are essential for the success of Nigeria’s renewable energy agenda.

    He stressed that closer collaboration between government and industry is non-negotiable if Nigeria is to make meaningful progress.

    “We need policy tools that reflect our realities, guided by data, and backed by strong implementation,” he said.

    At the close of the session, the panellists issued a set of key recommendations aimed at accelerating the integration of renewable energy into Nigeria’s power grid.

    These include the full implementation of SCADA systems for real-time grid control, the creation of Renewable Energy Zones with financial incentives, the adoption of cost-reflective tariff structures, the deployment of energy storage systems to manage intermittency, and strengthened cooperation between federal, state, and private actors.

    The dialogue underscored a clear and urgent message: Nigeria must act boldly and deliberately to modernise its grid, reform regulatory frameworks, and invest in clean technologies.

    With the right policies and partnerships, the country has the potential to become a continental leader in renewable energy deployment and energy security.

  • NERC transfers regulatory oversight to Nasarawa Electricity Regulatory Commission

    NERC transfers regulatory oversight to Nasarawa Electricity Regulatory Commission

    The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has transferred the regulatory oversight of Nasarawa State electricity market to the Nasarawa State Electricity Regulatory Commission (NASERC).

    This was contained in a statement by the commission in Abuja.

    It reads: “In compliance with the amended Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFRN) and the Electricity Act 2023 (Amended), the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (“NERC” or the “Commission”) has issued an order to transfer regulatory oversight of the electricity market in Nasarawa State from the Commission to the Nasarawa State Electricity Regulatory Commission (NASERC).”

    NERC recalled that with the Electricity Act (EA 2023), the Commission retains the role as a central regulator with regulatory oversight on the inter-state/international generation, transmission, supply, trading and system operations.

    The EA also mandates any state that intends to establish and regulate intrastate electricity markets to deliver a formal notification of its processes and requests NERC to transfer regulatory authority over electricity operations in the state to the State Regulator.

    According to NERC, the transfer Order by NERC has directed Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc (AEDC) to incorporate a subsidiary (AEDC SubCo) to assume responsibilities for intrastate supply and distribution of electricity in Nasarawa State from AEDC.

    It also mandated that AEDC shall complete the incorporation of AEDC SubCo within 60 days from 4th August 2025.

    The order added that the  sub company shall apply for and obtain licence for the intrastate supply and distribution of electricity from NASERC, among other directives.

    NERC insisted that all transfers envisaged by this order shall be completed by 3rd February 2026.

  • Energy realism for Africa: unmasking double standards and embracing a balanced path forward

    Energy realism for Africa: unmasking double standards and embracing a balanced path forward

    • By Dr. Obinna Onyekwena

    As Nigeria and the broader African continent grapple with the dual imperatives of economic development and global climate commitments, a critical conversation is emerging—one that challenges the prevailing narratives pushed by Western powers. This editorial builds upon and amplifies two recent opinion pieces I authored for Development Today, a respected Norwegian media outlet focused on international development. The first, titled “Climate Facades and African 

    Awakening: Unmasking Geopolitical Double Standards in Energy Policy” (published July 28, 2025), exposes the hypocrisy in global energy discourses. The second, “Beyond Clean Tech Extractivism: African Countries Must Embrace Multiple Energy Sources, Including Natural Gas” (published July 30, 2025), advocates for a pragmatic, multifaceted approach to energy, with a particular lens on Nigeria’s unique opportunities and challenges. By bringing these insights to Premium Times, I aim to ignite a Nigerian-led dialogue on energy realism, prioritizing our sovereignty, development needs, and equitable transition.

    Unmasking Geopolitical Double Standards: The Climate Facade

    In the global arena, climate policy often serves as a veneer for geopolitical maneuvering, where developed nations impose stringent green mandates on Africa while conveniently overlooking their own historical and ongoing contributions to environmental degradation. As detailed in my first Development Today article, this double standard is not merely inconsistent – it’s a strategic tool that perpetuates inequality.

    Consider the historical context: Europe and North America built their industrial might on fossil fuels, emitting vast quantities of greenhouse gases over centuries. Today, these same regions enjoy energy security, with per capita consumption far exceeding Africa’s. Yet, when African nations seek to harness their abundant natural resources for growth, they face lectures on sustainability and threats of withheld funding. The European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), for instance, effectively taxes imports from high-emission countries, disproportionately affecting African exporters who lack the infrastructure to “go green” overnight. This isn’t climate justice; it’s a facade that masks protectionism and resource control.

    Africa’s awakening to this reality is palpable. From the African Union’s pushback at COP conferences to statements by Nigerian leaders, there’s a growing recognition that the West’s “just transition” rhetoric often translates to “just for us.” My article highlights how multilateral institutions, influenced by Western donors, condition aid on renewable-only pathways, ignoring Africa’s energy poverty. Over 600 million Africans lack electricity, and in Nigeria alone, erratic power supply costs the economy billions annually. Forcing a premature leap to renewables without addressing these basics risks stalling development and exacerbating inequality.

    This hypocrisy extends to investment patterns. While Western governments phase out fossil fuels domestically, their corporations continue profiting from African oil and gas extraction, often with minimal local benefits. The narrative of “stranded assets” is weaponized to deter African investment in hydrocarbons, yet the same logic isn’t applied to ongoing subsidies for coal in parts of Europe or gas fracking in the U.S. African policymakers must unmask these double standards, demanding accountability and tailoring policies to our realities rather than imported agendas.

    Beyond Clean Tech Extractivism: A call for multiple energy sources

    Building on this critique, my second Development Today piece shifts focus to actionable solutions, urging African countries to reject “clean tech extractivism” and adopt a diversified energy mix. Clean tech extractivism refers to the ironic dynamic where Africa becomes a mining ground for minerals essential to Western green technologies – lithium, cobalt, rare earths – while bearing the environmental and social costs without reaping proportional gains. Congo’s cobalt mines, plagued by child labor and pollution, power electric vehicles in Europe, yet the continent’s own energy needs remain unmet.

    For Africa, true progress lies in embracing multiple energy sources, including natural gas as a transitional fuel. This is particularly relevant for Nigeria, Africa’s largest gas reserve holder with over 200 trillion cubic feet untapped. Natural gas offers a cleaner alternative to coal and diesel, emitting up to 50% less CO2 when used for power generation. It can bridge the gap to renewables, providing reliable baseload energy while solar and wind infrastructure scales up.

    In Nigeria, the potential is transformative. Chronic power outages hinder industrialization, with businesses relying on expensive generators that pollute and inflate costs. Leveraging gas could electrify rural areas, boost manufacturing, and create jobs in the value chain – from extraction to liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. The Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline project exemplifies this, promising to supply clean energy across West Africa. Moreover, gas can address household energy needs; transitioning from biomass cooking fuels to gas stoves would reduce deforestation and improve health outcomes for millions of Nigerian women and children exposed to indoor air pollution.

    Yet, external pressures persist. International financial institutions like the World Bank have scaled back fossil fuel funding, even for gas, under the guise of net-zero goals. This ignores the IPCC’s acknowledgment that natural gas has a role in low-emission pathways for developing regions. African nations must counter this by fostering South-South partnerships, collaborating with countries who prioritize mutual benefit over moral posturing.

    Diversification also means investing in renewables strategically. Nigeria’s solar potential is immense, with the capacity to generate over 400,000 MW, but it requires grid upgrades and storage solutions. Hydro, wind, and biofuels should complement gas, not replace it prematurely. Policies like Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan, aiming for net-zero by 2060, must be realistic, incorporating gas-to-power initiatives to avoid energy insecurity.

    Toward energy sovereignty: A Nigerian and African Imperative

    Amplifying these arguments in a Nigerian context is urgent. As Africa’s most populous nation and a key OPEC member, Nigeria’s energy choices will shape the continent’s trajectory. We cannot afford to be pawns in a geopolitical game where climate action doubles as economic containment. Instead, let’s champion energy realism: a balanced, sovereign approach that harnesses all viable sources for inclusive growth.

    I call on Nigerian policymakers, civil society, and the private sector to advocate for reformed global finance, demanding “additionality” in climate funds that support hybrid energy systems. Domestically, accelerating the Petroleum Industry Act’s implementation can attract investment in gas while enforcing environmental standards.

    These ideas, first articulated in Development Today, deserve a wider African audience. By publishing here in Premium Times, I hope to spark debate and action. Africa’s energy future must be defined by Africans, for Africans, free from facades and focused on prosperity. The time for awakening is now.

    Original articles: 

    Climate facades and African awakening: unmasking geopolitical double standards in energy policy | Development Today

    Beyond clean tech extractivism: African countries must embrace multiple energy sources, including natural gas | Development Today

    Dr. Obinna Onyekwena is Deputy Director for Infectious Diseases Advocacy at the Gates Foundation, and a traditional leader in Ufuma, Anambra State, Nigeria. He works at the intersection of global health, local leadership, and systems change, advocating for equitable development grounded in agency, innovation, and sustainability. He contributed this article in his personal capacity.

  • Energy experts want more policy action to sustain energy sector improvement

    Energy experts want more policy action to sustain energy sector improvement

    Energy experts have called for more effective policy implementation to address the sector’s shortcomings over Nigeria’s persistent electricity challenges.

    They made the call during the Distinguished Personality Lecture Series hosted by the Centre for Petroleum, Energy Economics and Law (CPEEL), University of Ibadan in honour of Professor Akin Iwayemi.

    The annual lecture, held to celebrate Professor Iwayemi’s decades-long contributions to energy economics, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. 

    The event brought together policymakers, academics, industry players, and students to deliberate on the future of Nigeria’s electricity sector.

    Delivering the keynote address, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Mr. Abba Aliyu called for collaborative national action to revitalize the power sector.

    Representated by the Chief Commercial Officer of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, Dr. Ademola Adewumi, the REA boss warned against over-reliance on foreign models, advocating for context-specific strategies rooted in Nigeria’s realities.

    Speaking on the the theme: “Let there be light: Pathway to a sustainable electricity future in Nigeria,” the guest speaker harped on the need for stronger partnerships among government, academia, private investors, and financial institutions to bring lasting transformation to the energy sector. 

    He stressed the importance of tapping into alternative energy sources such as solar, wind, and wave power, noting that political will, policy coherence, and the implementation of research findings are critical to unlocking this potential. 

    He lamented the sector’s unattractiveness to investors due to regulatory uncertainty, infrastructure costs, and foreign exchange volatility.

    He said, “There must be a stable policy environment and a long-term vision. Electricity must be treated as a national priority, beyond political cycles.”

    Earlier in his opening remarks, Director of CPEEL, Professor Olugbenga Falode described the lecture as a tribute to Professor Iwayemi’s pioneering legacy and a platform for bridging academic research with energy policy and practice. 

    He said Nigeria’s per capita energy consumption—about 180 kilowatt-hours—remains far below global standards, crippling key sectors like agriculture, education, and industry.

    Highlighting CPEEL’s recent innovations, Falode showcased a solar-powered, IoT-enabled irrigation system and a solar dryer designed to support post-harvest processing in rural communities—solutions already gaining traction among local farmers.

    Read Also: ‘Dollarised operations undermine energy transition’

    In his remarks, the honouree, Professor Akin Iwayemi reflected on decades of failed reforms. Citing the efforts of past power ministers including: Bola Ige, Barth Nnaji, and Babatunde Fashola, he noted that Nigeria’s energy crisis stems not from a lack of ideas or policies but from poor implementation and political inertia.

    “It’s not magic. The policies exist. What’s missing is accountability and the will to act. There is no free lunch. Ineffective leadership must be held accountable if we are to break the cycle”, he said.

    He maintained that without consequences for failure, whether through electoral processes or administrative sanctions, reforms will continue to falter.

    The event had in attendance: former Vice Chancellor, Professor O. A. Bamiro; former Oyo State Commissioner of Works and Transport, Professor Rahman Afonja; energy experts; stakeholders; and students from across academic levels.

  • Our greenhouse projects will boost dry season food production- OORBDA MD

    Our greenhouse projects will boost dry season food production- OORBDA MD

    The Ogun-Oshun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA) has firmly addressed recent criticisms of its greenhouse initiatives, standing by its reported accomplishments while reaffirming its commitment to bolstering Nigeria’s agricultural sector under the leadership of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Dr. Adedeji Ashiru.  

    In a statement jointly issued by Dr. Ashiru, Mr. Femi Dokunmu, the Authority’s Executive Director of Planning and Design and Engr. Taiwo Ogunshoro, Head of Construction. Dr Ashiru further provided detailed clarifications on the Authority’s greenhouse projects, confirming the completion of 73 new greenhouses, full rehabilitation of five others, and ongoing plans to refurbish an additional 15 units. 

    He said the contracts have been awarded for 220 more greenhouses, with delivery expected by 2025. These developments, he emphasised, are critical to ensuring year-round food production in line with President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on food security.  

    “Greenhouses are not just structures; they are a lifeline for sustainable agriculture, especially during dry seasons when traditional farming faces challenges,” Dr. Ashiru stated. “Our initiatives are designed to guarantee uninterrupted food supply, and every figure we present is backed by verifiable progress.”  

    “Access to clean water has also improved significantly. In 2024, the Authority awarded contracts for 400 solar-powered boreholes targeting rural communities across its seven-state coverage. Many have since been completed and commissioned, bringing safe, reliable groundwater to households and farms.

    Progress has also been recorded in reviving the dormant hydropower potential of the Ikere Gorge and Oyan dams, both built in the 1980s.”

    Responding to claims of exaggerated project figures, the OORBDA chief explained that the total count of 313 greenhouses encompasses completed units, those under construction, and newly awarded contracts. “When we report our achievements, we account for all active and forthcoming projects,” he clarified. “Transparency and accountability remain the cornerstones of our operations.”  

    Dr. Ashiru further emphasised that; all projects fall squarely within the Authority’s legal mandate of managing water resources, promoting irrigation, controlling floods and erosion, and generating hydropower.

    Supporting Dr. Ashiru’s assertions, Mr. Femi Dokunmu, the Authority’s Executive Director of Planning and Design, praised the Managing Director’s leadership for revitalising previously stalled initiatives. “Under Dr. Ashiru’s guidance, we have breathed new life into dormant projects, delivering tangible results that benefit our communities,” Dokunmu said. He also pointed to the recent commissioning of solar-powered boreholes, which have significantly improved water access for rural residents.  

    Engr. Taiwo Ogunshoro, Head of Construction at OORBDA, assured that all road projects adhere to strict quality standards. “Our asphalt specifications meet the required 50mm thickness, and in some areas like Okemosan, we have even exceeded this with 3-inch layers to ensure durability,” Ogunshoro explained. 

    Read Also: Nigeria, Germany sign €20m grant agreement to boost energy transition projects

    “We do not compromise on quality. The Authority is working in partnership with the Ogun State government, to restore power generation capacity to deliver decentralised electricity to nearby communities using surface water.”

    As the Authority continues to defend its programs, it remains steadfast in its mission to enhance Nigeria’s agricultural productivity through innovative and sustainable solutions. With greenhouse expansion, improved rural water access, and robust infrastructure development, OORBDA asserts that its initiatives are pivotal in building a resilient food system for the nation.

  • Nigeria poised to become West Africa’s hub for refined petroleum products – Lokpobiri

    Nigeria poised to become West Africa’s hub for refined petroleum products – Lokpobiri

    The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to positioning Nigeria as the marketing hub for refined petroleum products across West Africa.

    Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, stated this during a keynote address at the West African Refined Fuel Market Conference organised by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

    Speaking at the conference with the theme: “Creating a West African Reference Market for Oil & Gas Products,” the Minister highlighted the government’s strategic drive to support refiners, marketers, and regulators in creating an enabling environment for seamless trading within the region.

    Lokpobiri, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Nneamaka Okafor, said: “Our ambition is to ensure Nigeria becomes the center of refined product marketing in West Africa.

    “That is why we are giving continuous support to our refiners and stakeholders to stimulate growth and create a world-class trading ecosystem.”

    He noted that the government’s efforts to boost the midstream and downstream sectors are complemented by sustained progress in the upstream segment. “We are witnessing considerable growth across the value chain, and this is no coincidence. It is the result of deliberate policy interventions,” he added.

    Read Also: Lokpobiri: Crude oil production hits 1.8mb/d

    The Minister further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the bold step in removing fuel subsidy, describing it as a catalyst for downstream sector growth. “The removal of petroleum subsidy is already triggering expansion in the market and encouraging private sector investment,” Lokpobiri affirmed.

    While applauding indigenous operators in the refining space, the Minister called on both local and international investors to seize the opportunity to invest in Nigeria’s refining sector. “By expanding our refining capacity, we won’t just meet domestic demand, we will service the entire West African market and beyond,” he concluded.

  • Indigenous oil, gas summit in Lagos postponed

    Indigenous oil, gas summit in Lagos postponed

    The Organising Committee of the Indigenous Oil and Gas has announced the postponement of its summit originally scheduled to take place in Lagos on July 23 and 24, till further notice.

    A statement by Wenefred Ogunze said the Committee regrets to inform its partners, stakeholders, participants, and the general public of the postponement.

    According to the statement, “This decision was reached after careful consideration of current circumstances that may affect the smooth planning, logistics and overall experience of the event. 

    “As a platform committed to excellence, inclusion and the advancement of indigenous participation in the oil and gas sector, we believe it is in the best interest of all stakeholders to reschedule.

    Read Also: Nigeria’s Energy Diplomacy and the Making of $5 Billion Africa Energy Bank

    “We deeply apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding, support, and continued commitment to the goals of the summit.

    “A new date will be communicated in due course, and we assure all registered participants and partners that their interests remain a top priority.”