LOKOJA, Nigeria — President Bola Tinubu has declared that Nigeria is poised to lead Africa’s renewable energy revolution, saying the country is positioning itself as a continental leader in clean energy development while commissioning what the Federal Government described as Africa’s first renewable energy college in Kogi State.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the President said the establishment of the institution demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding renewable energy capacity, developing technical expertise and preparing Nigeria for the global shift toward sustainable energy solutions. He noted that the transition to cleaner energy is essential for economic growth, industrialisation and environmental sustainability.
Tinubu said Nigeria is endowed with enormous renewable energy resources, including solar, wind, hydro and biomass, which can be harnessed to improve electricity supply, stimulate economic activities and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. According to him, effective utilisation of these resources will not only strengthen the nation’s energy security but also create employment opportunities for millions of Nigerians.
The President explained that the newly commissioned college would serve as a specialised centre for training, research and innovation in renewable energy technologies. He said the institution is expected to produce skilled technicians, engineers and researchers capable of driving Nigeria’s clean energy transition while supporting both public and private sector investments in the industry.
He further stated that the Federal Government remains committed to implementing policies that encourage investments in renewable energy infrastructure, improve electricity access and promote sustainable development across the country. According to Tinubu, expanding technical and vocational education in renewable energy will equip young Nigerians with skills needed to compete in the emerging global green economy.
Tinubu also stressed the importance of collaboration among government agencies, educational institutions, development partners and private investors in advancing renewable energy projects nationwide. He said partnerships would facilitate technology transfer, increase investment, promote innovation and accelerate the deployment of clean energy solutions in both urban and rural communities.
Government officials at the event described the renewable energy college as a landmark achievement for technical education in Africa. They expressed confidence that the institution would help bridge the shortage of skilled professionals required to support Nigeria’s growing renewable energy sector while contributing to industrial development and national economic growth.
Energy experts have consistently identified renewable energy as a key solution to Nigeria’s electricity challenges, particularly in extending power supply to remote communities that remain outside the national grid. Solar energy, mini-grids and other off-grid technologies are increasingly being adopted to improve energy access in underserved areas.
Industry stakeholders also believe that greater investment in renewable energy would reduce reliance on conventional power generation, lower greenhouse gas emissions and support Nigeria’s climate commitments. They argue that reliable clean energy would improve productivity in agriculture, healthcare, education, manufacturing and small-scale enterprises, thereby stimulating inclusive economic development.
The commissioning of the renewable energy college comes as African countries continue to expand investments in sustainable energy to meet rising electricity demand and address climate change. Development organisations have repeatedly urged governments across the continent to strengthen clean energy infrastructure while promoting innovation and local capacity development.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s determination to position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s renewable energy sector, expressing confidence that sustained investments in education, technology, research and infrastructure would enable the country to drive the continent’s transition toward cleaner, more reliable and sustainable sources of energy.
