Governors Sign MoU With Chinese Energy Giant To Drive Electricity Reform
Aliyu Bala Gerengi, Gombe
In an apparent move to boost energy planning within the States of the Federation, governors of the 36 states on Thursday, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Energy China, a major Chinese company known for renewable energy and gas production.
The pack was signed at the Secretariat of the Nigerian Governors' Forum in Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of the chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), the governor of Gombe State who is also the Chairman of Northern States Governors’ Forum, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, said that the MoU and the ensuing relationship between the organisations will signal a critical step in strengthening the institutional framework for sub-national energy governance through fostering energy security, efficiency, and economic development across the States.
Represented by the Commissioner of Finance and Economic Development, Muhammad Gambo Magaji, the Gombe State Governor emphasized the importance of recognizing Nigeria's ongoing transformation in expanding access to sustainable electricity, especially through renewable energy sources, following the enactment of the Electricity Act of 2023.
”This groundbreaking legislation marked a pivotal moment for our energy landscape, introducing innovative structures that aim to boost investments and enhance the reliability of power supply across the country.
Since the passing of the Electricity Act, we have witnessed a surge of innovations and reforms aimed at revamping our energy sector.
”We are moving towards more decentralized energy solutions, encouraging the integration of renewable energy solutions that can provide sustainable and affordable electricity to our communities.
”The Act has also laid the groundwork for improving regulatory frameworks, enabling private sector investments, and fostering public-private partnerships, a vital component for the successful implementation of our renewable energy goals.”
Recall that Gombe State Government, under the leadership of Governor Inuwa Yahaya had late last year signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, with China's 18th Engineering Bureau Group to launch a 100-megawatt solar energy project aimed at increasing energy self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on the national grid.
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