● Ferdy Agu
••• Targets 792,000 new jobs in renewable energy, waste management
In yet another pacesetting move, the Enugu State Government, under the leadership of Governor Peter Mbah, has approved the Enugu State Climate Policy and Action Plan (ESCPAP), making it the first subnational government in Nigeria to adopt a long-term climate strategy. This policy incorporates emissions modeling, microenergy audits, and extensive stakeholder engagement, positioning Enugu as a trailblazer in climate action.
Alongside the climate policy, the State Executive Council has also approved the Enugu State Off-Grid Electrification (OGE) Policy Strategy Plan. This initiative aims to expand electricity access to unserved and underserved communities, utilizing distributed renewable energy solutions to stimulate economic growth and improve public service delivery.
The announcements were made by the Secretary to State Government (SSG), Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, who briefed the press at the conclusion of the State Executive Council meeting over the weekend. Joining him were the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Prof. Sam Ugwu, and the Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Dr. Nathaniel Uramah.
Prof. Onyia highlighted that the ESCPAP reflects the Mbah Administration’s commitment to balancing economic transformation with environmental sustainability. The policy focuses on innovation, inclusiveness, and climate resilience, ensuring that key sectors such as agriculture, energy, and natural resources are climate-resilient and future-proofed against environmental challenges.
The government described the ESCPAP as a pioneering effort aimed at facilitating clean energy development, creating jobs, and promoting advancements in green technologies. “We recall that Enugu State began designing this policy eight months ago. After conducting surveys and analyzing data from various instruments, we have developed a comprehensive policy and action plan,” Prof. Onyia stated.
He emphasized that the ESCPAP aims to enhance economic growth, with a particular focus on job creation. “We expect this plan to create 792,000 jobs in renewable energy, waste management, and reforestation by 2060,” he added, underscoring the policy’s potential to transform the state’s economic landscape.
In terms of sustainable economic growth, the ESCPAP is expected to drive a remarkable 25-fold increase in Enugu State’s GDP by 2060, primarily through investments in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and green technology. These sectors are projected to provide long-term economic benefits and contribute to the state’s resilience in the face of climate change.
The policy also outlines ambitious targets for energy transition, aiming for 80 percent renewable energy usage by 2060. Additionally, the plan seeks a 60 percent reduction in emissions from the transport sector, coupled with an expansive afforestation program to enhance carbon sequestration.
A key component of the policy is the establishment of an ESCPAP Implementation Committee. This committee will include representatives from the government, private sector, civil society, and international donor organizations. Its role will be to ensure the effective execution of the policy’s objectives, which will be complemented by the introduction of a climate change curriculum in Enugu’s Smart Green Schools. This curriculum aims to equip future generations with the necessary skills and knowledge in green innovation.
Prof. Onyia also pointed out that the ESCPAP aligns with Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and global climate agreements, positioning Enugu as a crucial player in the nation’s pursuit of a low-carbon, sustainable future.
Turning to the state’s Off-Grid Electrification Policy, Prof. Onyia elaborated on its strategic significance. “This policy complements the Enugu State Electrification Policy, which was passed in the 2023 Enugu Electricity Law. It provides a framework for catalyzing private sector investment, promoting socio-economic growth, and enhancing the overall quality of life for Enugu residents,” he said.
The Off-Grid Electrification Policy emphasizes the importance of distributed renewable energy solutions such as solar, wind, hydro, and biomass. These solutions will be critical drivers of electrification in Enugu’s rural and peri-urban areas, where conventional grid connections are often lacking.
Ultimately, both the ESCPAP and the Off-Grid Electrification Policy align with the Mbah Administration’s broader economic vision for the state. The government aims to grow Enugu’s economy into a $30 billion economy by 2031, with these policies serving as key pillars in realizing that ambitious goal.
In summary, the recent approvals by the Enugu State Executive Council represent a bold and innovative approach to climate action and energy development. Through these strategic initiatives, Governor Mbah’s administration is positioning Enugu as a leader in sustainable development, economic growth, and environmental stewardship. GMTNewsng
