The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN, says the Barefoot Renewable Energy College will play a pivotal role in powering Nigeria’s energy future by producing the skilled workforce needed to drive the country’s transition to renewable energy.
Udeh made this known in a statement ahead of the presidential commissioning of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) Complex and the Barefoot Renewable Energy College in Osara, Kogi State, describing the project as a strategic national investment in clean energy, innovation, and human capital development.
The ECN Complex also houses the Green Hydrogen Research and Demonstration Pilot Plant, and is designed to advance Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan through investments in renewable energy development, technology, research, and workforce capacity.
Speaking, Udeh said said the project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) Complex and the Barefoot Renewable Energy College, the first of its kind in Africa, perfectly aligns and projects the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President.
“It will promote job creation, economic diversification, improved energy access, poverty reduction, and sustainable development”.
He explained that the college would provide practical training in solar and other renewable energy technologies to Nigerians and help to build the required technical manpower to strengthen the nation’s expanding renewable energy industry.
The minister also highlighted the importance of the Green Hydrogen Research and Demonstration Pilot Plant.
“The Pilot Plant is aimed at diversifying Nigeria’s energy mix, reducing dependence on fossil fuels…The facility will test decentralized hydrogen systems as a reliable and environmentally friendly alternative to diesel generators, particularly in the areas with unstable electricity supply.”
Udeh added that the project supports Nigeria’s target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, with hydrogen expected to play a significant role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions across the industrial, transportation, and power sectors.
Industry analysts have greeted the project as a game changer, noting that with its establishment, the Federal Government has demonstrated that it is not paying lip service in its commitment to energy security, environmental sustainability, indigenous innovation, and the clean energy transition plan.