- The shift from fossil fuels to renewables is inevitable but requires proper management to prevent worsening energy poverty.
- The transition poses risks to Nigeria’s economy, yet it also offers opportunities for diversification and sustainable growth.
The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has stressed that shifting from fossil fuels to renewables is inevitable. However, the transition must be managed properly to prevent deeper energy poverty.
Dr Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, NEITI’s Executive Secretary, spoke in Abuja during a Chief Executive Officers and Media Roundtable on “Building a Framework for Engagement on Energy Transition Costs and Impacts for Non-State Actors.” He noted that the transition presents challenges to jobs, infrastructure, host communities, and government revenues.
Currently, about 86 million Nigerians live without reliable power. Therefore, Orji emphasised that the shift from fossil fuels to renewables must be carefully handled. Otherwise, it could worsen their plight and undermine development.
Although risks are clear, opportunities exist for innovation, economic diversification, and repositioning Nigeria’s economy. NEITI, he explained, is addressing this shift using credible data and evidence, treating it as a necessity rather than a formality.
The ongoing study, supported by the Ford Foundation, forms part of NEITI’s climate change, energy transition, and environmental accountability policy. This policy tracks emissions, stranded assets, and compliance with environmental and transition goals.
Orji called for collaboration among stakeholders. He urged the media to investigate and amplify findings, while civil society should mobilise citizens to demand transparency. Industry players, he added, must balance profitability with sustainability. In addition, development partners should align finance and technical support with a just transition.
He also insisted that resource-dependent countries, including Nigeria, demand equal access to climate finance and technology transfer. These, he said, will provide the tools required for transition investments.
Furthermore, Orji stated that the study would strengthen Nigeria’s voice in international debates. The final report, he explained, will influence reforms, shape policy, and empower citizens.
Similarly, Mr Mathew Adole, Alternate Chair of the National Stakeholders Working Group (NSWG), warned that the planned transition poses significant risks. According to him, Nigeria remains heavily dependent on oil and gas for revenue and consumption. The NSWG approved the study to deepen understanding and ensure informed engagement with national policy.
He added that the completed report will serve as an important resource for advocacy on Nigeria’s energy transition.