This is not just about clean energy. It is about creating jobs, ensuring equitable access to energy, and driving inclusive growth that benefits everyone.”
By Deborah Hassan
365Daily – Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Renewable Energy, Hon. Victor Afam Ogene, has praised the Osun State Government for hosting the event and aligning with the national agenda for renewable energy.
He said this on Tuesday in Osogbo at an event organised by Osun State Government to unveil its Climate-Smart Investment Portfolio, the first-ever South-West Post-Conference Stakeholders’ Roundtable on Renewable Energy.
“The theme of this event aligns perfectly with the governor’s innovative leadership and vision for development,” Ogene said. “We commend His Excellency’s foresight in recognising the importance of technology for development.”
He described the roundtable as a direct outcome of the First Annual National Legislative Conference on Renewable Energy held in Lagos last month in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Ogene also acknowledged the efforts of Professor Chinwe Obuaku, Consultant and Technical Lead for the Osun Government, saying, “Her insightful contributions underscore Osun’s position as a key sub-national player in Nigeria’s clean energy movement.”
Ogene noted that the 10th House of Representatives, led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, has made renewable energy a top legislative priority. “In a historic first, the Speaker established the House Committee on Renewable Energy to spearhead policies, track progress, and promote investment in sustainable energy solutions,” he said.
He also revealed that the House had adopted a resolution mandating all federal ministries, departments, and agencies to transition to renewable energy sources. “This is a model that could be replicated in the states to drive a unified national development trajectory,” he added.
The event, themed “From Vision to Action: Localising Nigeria’s Renewable Energy Legislative Agenda,” brought together government officials, lawmakers, technical experts, and development partners to advance renewable energy at the sub-national level.
Representing Governor Ademola Adeleke, Deputy Governor Prince Kola Adewusi presented the state’s draft Renewable Energy Policy and Climate Action Plan, describing them as “key instruments for building a strong legislative and institutional foundation for an inclusive energy transition.”
In a message delivered on his behalf, Governor Adeleke stated, “We are unveiling our Climate-Smart Investment Portfolio as a strategic roadmap designed to attract responsible capital into renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, and the circular economy.”
He added that the Climate Action Plan was developed in consultation with experts, grassroots communities, and development agencies, emphasising inclusiveness and long-term sustainability. “Our climate vision extends beyond today; it is for generations yet unborn,” he said.
Highlighting the state’s practical steps, the governor announced the establishment of a State Recycling Hub, the introduction of electric motorcycles, and the launch of Green Clubs in schools. He also introduced the IMOLE Solar Lantern Project, which he described as “a practical and symbolic solution for last-mile energy access.”
Under the campaign “One Child, One Lantern,” the government aims to provide students in rural and underserved areas with solar-powered lights to support their education.
“Every child deserves light to study, dream, and grow—regardless of their location or background,” Adeleke said. “To all our delegates, the solar lantern in your conference bag is not just a keepsake but a beacon of the future we are striving for.”
In her remarks, Professor Chinwe Obuaku said the goal of the post-conference roundtable was to shape clear, actionable, and localized solutions to accelerate renewable energy development in Osun and across the South-West.
“This is not just about clean energy,” she said. “It is about creating jobs, ensuring equitable access to energy, and driving inclusive growth that benefits everyone.”
The two-day conference continues and is expected to conclude on Wednesday.