The Chairman of the House Committee on Renewable Energy, Victor Ogene, has underscored the need for accessible and equitable policies to drive Nigeria’s energy transition, advocating tax incentives and vocational grants to empower youth in renewable energy sectors.
Speaking during a side event at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, Ogene stressed the importance of integrating legislative frameworks that support young innovators and ensure inclusivity in Nigeria’s transition to renewable energy.
The event, titled “Driving the Just Transition: Labor-Based Incentives and Youth-Centric Policies for a Sustainable Future,” was co-hosted by the Committee on Renewable Energy and INCLUDE, a Netherlands-based knowledge platform.
It centered on strategies for Africa’s equitable energy transition while addressing critical issues such as labor incentives, youth inclusion, and sustainable energy policies.
Hon. Ogene highlighted the critical role of youth in climate policy, advocating for their active participation not just as advisors but as key decision-makers. “Youth inclusion in discussions about climate change and energy transition is non-negotiable. They bring innovative solutions and are pivotal to driving sustainability,” Ogene remarked.
The discussions focused on implementing labor-based incentives, vocational grants, and tax breaks as tools to empower young Nigerians to lead renewable energy initiatives. A joint statement by Ogene and INCLUDE Executive Director Anika Altaf emphasized the need to integrate equity, sustainability, and job creation into renewable energy policies.
Anika Altaf proposed mentorship programs and international funding to bolster youth-led renewable energy initiatives. She called for targeted financial incentives such as grants for startups, subsidies for acquiring technical skills, and transparent policy frameworks to ensure equitable access.
“Providing mentorship, direct funding for grassroots projects, and fostering partnerships are essential to enabling young innovators to scale their solutions and impact their communities positively,” Altaf said.
The event also explored Africa’s specific challenges in the global energy transition. With the continent contributing less than 4% to global emissions, speakers called for localized strategies that prioritize job creation, improved energy access, and innovative solutions to tackle energy poverty.
“While Africa’s emissions are minimal, the continent faces a disproportionate burden of climate impacts,” Ogene noted. “Our energy transition strategies must reflect our realities, focusing on creating jobs and ensuring equitable access to sustainable energy.”
Discussions highlighted the role of technology and artificial intelligence in driving renewable energy innovation. Young innovators across Africa are developing scalable solutions tailored to local needs, leveraging technology to bridge gaps in energy access.
Early exposure to tech education was identified as a critical step, with examples like coding programs for children as young as eight cited as ways to prepare the next generation of leaders in renewable energy.
The event stressed the need for collaboration between African governments, private sector stakeholders, and international organizations to amplify Africa’s voice in global forums like COP. Participants advocated for partnerships to provide mentorship, direct funding for grassroots projects, and training programs to equip youth with the skills necessary for a just energy transition.
The event concluded with a consensus to translate discussions into actionable frameworks aimed at advancing Africa’s renewable energy transition. Key outcomes included:
– Piloting labor-based incentives to drive green job creation.
– Integrating youth priorities into national renewable energy policies.
– Advocating Africa’s interests on global platforms such as COP2024.
Speakers emphasized the transformative potential of youth-led renewable energy solutions, urging the international community to authentically support these initiatives. “Young people hold the key to Africa’s sustainable future,” Ogene stated. “With the right policies, mentorship, and financial support, they can lead the continent’s energy transition and contribute to global climate goals.”
The discussions at COP29 reinforced the need for bold, youth-centered approaches to ensure Africa’s energy transition is not only sustainable but also equitable and inclusive. As Nigeria continues to push for these reforms, the global community has been urged to back these efforts with genuine commitment and resources.
