In a compelling presentation at the National Assembly symposium titled "Harnessing the Emerging Opportunities in the Creative, Digital, Green, and Blue Economies for National Development: Quest for Collaborative Strategies," Dr. Halima Ahmed Usman, PhD, outlined an ambitious roadmap for Nigeria to embrace renewable energy as a catalyst for sustainable economic growth. The symposium was organized by Rt. Hon. Patty Etete-Inemeh, Special Assistant on Strategy and Creative Economy to the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio. The event, held at the National Assembly Library and Resource Center in Abuja, brought together policymakers, industry experts, and stakeholders focused on Nigeria's future.
Dr. Halima’s presentation emphasized that a transition to renewable energy is essential for both economic and environmental reasons. She called for a proactive shift from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. Highlighting the detrimental impact of fossil fuels on climate change, she noted that non-renewable sources account for over 75% of global greenhouse gas emissions. "To mitigate the impacts of climate change, Nigeria must reduce emissions significantly by 2030 and aim for net-zero emissions by 2050," she asserted.
Her recommendations included developing power policies tailored to Nigeria’s diverse climatic regions. She proposed that each geopolitical zone should adopt renewable energy solutions best suited to their specific climate. For rural and urban communities, renewable energy could offer a stable and affordable alternative to conventional power, fostering sustainable development. Dr. Halima also stressed that Nigeria’s cottage industries, which are vital to the economy, require efficient and cost-effective electrification solutions, making renewable energy an ideal choice.
Dr. Halima urged the government to support local industries, particularly those in export zones, by powering them with renewable energy sources. This approach, she explained, would enhance the productivity of these industries while aligning with global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. "Transitioning to a green economy means embracing energy sources that produce minimal or zero CO₂ emissions," she noted, advocating for policies that discourage fossil fuel use in favor of cleaner alternatives.
She concluded her presentation by emphasizing that renewable energy sources are not only environmentally sustainable but also economically advantageous in the long term. Solar and wind power systems, for example, offer stability and affordability, reducing Nigeria’s reliance on costly and polluting fossil fuels. She called on the Nigerian government to follow the lead of other developing economies in implementing policies to control greenhouse gas emissions and support sustainable energy.
Dr. Halima’s address resonated strongly with attendees, reinforcing the notion that Nigeria’s journey toward a green economy is not only feasible but imperative. Her advocacy for renewable energy, backed by concrete policy recommendations, set the stage for a broader conversation on sustainable development. Rt. Hon. Patty Etete-Inemeh praised Dr. Halima’s vision, highlighting its alignment with the Senate's commitment to fostering growth through innovation and sustainability.
As Nigeria continues to explore pathways for economic diversification, Dr. Halima’s insights provide a critical framework for leveraging renewable energy as a means to sustainable prosperity. The symposium underscored the potential of creative, digital, green, and blue economies to transform Nigeria, with renewable energy at the core of this vision for a brighter, greener future.
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