In December 2024, Panasonic transitioned its RE100 site in Wales from using traditional energy sources as part of the company’s shift toward sustainability and to lower its dependence on external power.
The Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN) and Access Bank have displayed commitment to ensure that renewable energy issues are brought to the front burner. This was demonstrated at REAN’s Renewable Energy Conference 2024 with the theme, “Unlocking affordable energy for all.”
Speaking at the event, Ayo Ademilua, President of Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN), noted that the association was honoured to have Access Bank as a partner in the quest to promote renewable agenda.
“We are glad that Access Bank is in this with us. The renewed drive demonstrated by Access bank in recent weeks, concerning our industry, is encouraging. The bank has the willingness to support and drive clean energy access. I believe that they will put actions behind those words,” he added.
Briefing the gathering, Gregory Jobome, Executive Director, Risk Management, Access Bank, said the financial institution sees the REAN Annual General Meeting as unique as the theme of the meeting speaks directly to a core challenge faced in Nigeria and across Africa.
He said, “At Access Bank, we recognize that energy is not only the backbone of economic development but a fundamental need that touches every aspect of life. Our commitment to renewable energy initiatives stems from the belief that affordable and sustainable energy is essential for a brighter and more inclusive future for Nigerians.
“Today, we stand at a crossroads where renewable energy is not just an aspiration but a necessity. Access Bank is proud to work with REAN and other industry players to support projects that can transform Nigeria’s energy landscape. We know that financing sustainable solutions requires more than just funding.
“It requires vision, partnerships, and a commitment to removing the barriers that have restricted access to affordable energy. Through collaborative efforts and innovative financing solutions, we can create a framework that attracts investments, fosters local manufacturing, and incentivizes clean energy projects.
“This conference provides the unique platform to share ideas, insights, and strategies that can propel us toward achieving universal energy access. I am inspired by the work that each of you is doing in this field and am confident that our discussions today will lay the groundwork for impactful progress.
“We also must impact our planet positively. We got very early exposure in a global context, working with the likes of the IFC, FMO, DG, World Bank and other global players. That early interaction meant we were able to make the business case for operating in this manner, and that’s why we have set up a sustainability unit since 2008.
“Now, we are at the cusp of further transformation for Nigeria. The world is transforming, in terms of the net zero journey and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Access Bank has been preparing. We are leading that chart to ensure that more of our colleagues and players participate in this journey,” Jobome concluded.
The REAN-Access Bank collaboration is a further testament to the bank’s commitment to its Sustainable Finance Accelerator Program, unveiled last month. It was designed to support corporates, MSMEs, and nano businesses focused on climate mitigation, adaptation, health care, and other social projects.
Interested applicants are encouraged to click HERE to register and follow Access Bank’s social pages and website for more information and updates regarding the Sustainable Finance Accelerator Program.
Adeniran Michael Timothy has been recognized as the ‘African Renewable Inspiring Youth Advocate’ for his outstanding contributions to promoting renewable energy and inspiring youth across the continent.
This prestigious accolade highlights his dedication to sustainable development and his impact on empowering the next generation in Africa.
The prestigious African Gathering of the 100 Most Notable Africans, an event celebrating individuals who have made significant positive impacts on the continent in Kigali, Rwanda
During the ceremony, His Excellency Amb. Adeniran Michael Timothy, Special Emissary to the United Republic of Tanzania for the International Society of Diplomats, was awarded the title of “African Renewable Inspiring Youth Advocate & Community Development.”
The accolade recognizes his exceptional contributions through his leadership at the Funmilayo Health Foundation Africa, which provides affordable healthcare and support to children across Africa.
Amb. Adeniran, a distinguished youth diplomat dedicated to advancing Africa’s development, also received a Certificate of Excellence from the World Peace & Diplomacy Organization.
The awards were presented at the Marriot Hotel Convention Centre in Kigali, highlighting his commitment to making a transformative difference in the lives of African children and fostering community development.
President Bola Tinubu has disclosed that Nigeria attracted over $2 billion in investment in the renewable energy sector, making it a fast-growing sector in the economy.
Tinubu has instructed the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to only issue mining licences if they are tied to local value addition.
This is to ensure that young Nigerians are actively engaged in economic activities, acquiring skills and contributing to the overall development of the economy.
The President gave the directive on Wednesday during the opening session of the African Natural Resources & Energy Investment Summit, 2024, held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.
Represented by the Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu reiterated the commitment of his administration to continue to attract more private sector involvement in the renewable energy space.
He said, “In leveraging opportunities in the renewable energy space, Nigeria has attracted over $2 billion in investment in the renewable energy sector, making it a fast-growing sector in the economy.
”Our commitment is to continue this trajectory and attract more private sector involvement in the renewable energy space, including manufacturing locally produced solar panels and batteries.”
He, however, emphasised that discussions on the energy transition must also include the significance of the petroleum industry as a cornerstone of the nation’s economy.
“While we strive to embrace renewable and cleaner energy sources, we acknowledge that oil and gas continue to play a vital role in our energy and economic landscape,” he stated.
He highlighted strategic priorities in the sector to include the goal to attract more investment in the oil and gas industry; grow oil production to 2.1 million barrels a day by December 2024.
”This is with a view to improving investment in midstream and downstream infrastructure; tackle theft; and hold developers accountable for the highest environmental standards,”the president said.
Tinubu further restated the administration’s commitment to manage resources responsibly, minimising their ecological footprint and maximising their benefits for the nation.
In his keynote address, the minister of solid mineral development, Dr Oladele Alake, said the summit provides a great opportunity to forge partnerships and attract investments that will drive the development of Africa’s natural resources.
According to him, AFNIS 2024 is not just another conference but a convergence of visionaries, policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders, all united by a shared commitment to unlocking the full potential of the continent’s natural wealth.
“This platform is pivotal, not only for the discourse it fosters but for the actionable insights and strategic partnerships it will undoubtedly yield. We are here to explore how Africa’s abundant resources can be leveraged to drive economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability.”
Alake noted that President Tinubu’s administration was committed to transforming Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Sector into a cornerstone of the country’s Economic Diversification Strategy.
“Our approach is multifaceted, focusing on policy reforms, sustainable practices, infrastructure development, and human capital enhancement. We are currently implementing comprehensive reforms that will create a conducive environment for investment in the Solid Minerals Sector. These reforms aim to enhance transparency, regulatory clarity, and investor confidence, fostering a competitive and thriving industry. This aligns with Mr. President’s vision of an open and transparent government that works for the people.”
The minister further stated that in extracting the minerals from the soil, attention is being paid to minimise damage to the environment, ands for the local community’s hosting the mineral wealth to benefit directly from the resources under their foot, through effective community development agreements (CDAs) between mining companies and host communities.
“Through robust Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives and proactive community engagement, our goal is to empower communities and foster inclusive development. This commitment is reinforced by the recent revision of the Community Development Agreement (CDA), which I initiated shortly after assuming office. This updated framework ensures that local communities are integral partners in mining ventures, safeguarding their interests and ensuring direct participation in and benefits from resource extraction projects. The CDA exemplifies our unwavering dedication to sustainable development, transparency, and the enduring prosperity of all communities involved,” he stated.
He also spoke about the importance of infrastructure and skilled workforce in enabling mining activities, saying the government was encouraging investments in key projects, including transportation, power supply, and technological advancements.
“These investments will facilitate efficient extraction, processing, and transportation of minerals, thereby boosting productivity and competitiveness.
“As building a skilled workforce is essential for the success of the Solid Minerals Industry, we will continue to enhance the capacity of our workforce through training and education, ensuring that our people can participate meaningfully in the industry and drive its growth. This is in line with President Tinubu’s commitment to creating opportunities for all Nigerians.”
The minister recalled Nigeria’s leadership role in the newly established Africa Minerals Strategy Group which he was elected the first chairman, saying the platform will enable him to set new standards in the mining industry and ensuring that Africa secures an equitable share in supplying the world with critical minerals.
“This initiative will drive economic growth, promote sustainable practices, and foster international collaboration in the Mining Sector.”
”This summit represents a significant milestone in our collective journey toward addressing Africa’s vast natural resources and sustainable economic development,” Alake said.
Dignitaries at the summit included Sen. Mohammed Sani (APC-Niger East), the minister of State for Environment, Dr. Ishaq Salako; minister of State for Steel Development, Uba Ahmadu, and permanent secretary in the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Mary Ogbe.
LEADERSHIP reports that countries like Chad, Algeria, Malawi, South Sudan, and Sierra Leone, among others are represented at the two-day summit ongoing at Banquet Hall, State House, Abuja.
Welcome to DopeReporters, the leading resource for accurate, timely, and influential news. Covering important events in Nigeria and around the world is part of our mission to create stories that have an impact. Giving you a comprehensive perspective on politics, sports, entertainment, current events, and more is our goal.
©2022 DopeReporters. All Right Reserved. Designed and Developed by multiplatforms
