President of the Solar Energy Society of Nigeria (SESN), Dr Sunny Akpoyibo, has called for a stronger collaboration between governments, as well as private investors in Nigeria to evolve means of strategic investments in renewable energy technologies for the country to overcome the growing energy demand by her citizens.
To achieve this, Akpoyibo urged the leadership in the Nigerian economy to consider increased investments in youths development, innovation and research so that the nation may achieve sustainable energy security for an accelerated national transition to renewable energy.
Akpoyibo stated these while speaking during the inauguration of the SESN’s Board of Trustees, Patrons, as well as the conferment of Fellowship Awards among others, held at the Prof. I. H. Umar Conference Hall in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.
Speaking at the event, the Akpoyibo emphasized that Nigeria’s growing energy demands require stronger collaboration and as such, stakeholders need to collaborate for institutional reforms and strategic investments in renewable energy technologies.
In a statement issued yesterday made available to LEADERSHIP in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, Akpoyibo advocated that empowering the nation’s youths through capacity-building programmes, research initiatives and skills acquisition in solar energy technologies will strengthen the renewable energy sector, in addition to contributing significantly to job creation and national development.
“We will prioritise youth empowerment through capacity-building programmes, research initiatives and skills development in solar energy technologies, contributing to job creation and national development,” he said.
Akpoyibo described the event as a major milestone in the Society’s history, noting that the inauguration of the Board of Trustees, recognition of patrons, inauguration of sub-committee chairpersons and conferment of fellowship awards would strengthen the organisation’s capacity to advance renewable energy development in Nigeria
He disclosed that SESN remained committed to driving innovation, advocacy and partnerships that would accelerate the adoption of renewable energy solutions across the country.
The newly inaugurated Board of Trustees comprises former senator and engineer, Senator Uche Ekwunife, CON; Senator Engr. Ibrahim Gobir, PhD; Prof. Salihu Mustafa; Vice Admiral Kari Ombu (Rtd), CFR, mni; Prof. Isaac Nathaniel Itodo, FSESN; Prof. Sunny Ahweafada; and Alhaji Kabir Shagaya.
The Society also recognised its patrons led by Chairman of the Patrons Council, Emeritus Professor A. S. Sambo among other members, which included; Emeritus Professor O. C. Iloeje, Prof. A. A. Asere, Prof. Maxwell Gidado; Commodore Isaac Mankilik (rtd), and Engr. Samuel Erhiare Onoji.
Unveiling his administration’s strategic agenda aimed at repositioning SESN for a greater impact, Akpoyibo urged members to provide strategic oversight and preserve the institutional integrity of the Society.
Akpoyibo expressed optimism that with the support of members and stakeholders, the Society would emerge as a leading force in renewable energy development and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s quest for sustainable energy solutions.
