In a strategic and forward-thinking move, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), under the leadership of Chairman Olanrewaju Suraju, initiated a significant engagement with the Ministry of Environment. The primary objective of the visit was to address critical issues pertaining to Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan (ETP), as detailed in the Report on Nigerian Energy Transition Plan, Feasibility, Implementation, and Challenges. This comprehensive report was the fruit of a collaborative effort involving HEDA Resource Centre, the law firm of Olaniwun Ajayi, and the Vance Center for International Justice.
Suraju provided a thorough and insightful overview of the Nigerian Energy Transition Plan during the meeting. He highlighted HEDA’s extensive review of the ETP, a collaboration with legal experts, and underscored pressing concerns such as the use of fossil fuels, methane emissions, and the efficient utilization of mineral deposits.
One of the key findings of the report was the prevalent practice of awarding licenses without rigorous reviews or adequate stakeholder engagement, involving entities such as NOSDRA, NEITI, and NUPRC. Suraju emphasized the significance of implementing the recommendations outlined in the recently developed Policy Briefs.
In his response, the Minsiter, Dr. Ishaq Salako expressed the minister’s prior involvement in addressing methane emissions and a strong willingness to deepen collaboration with HEDA and other Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).
Dr. Salako committed to facilitating connections between HEDA and the Methane emissions control officers in Abuja, as well as the Climate Change officials. Furthermore, the minister expressed his intention to partner with HEDA for the active implementation of Nigeria’s international commitments of fossil fuel proliferation, climate change mitigation, and participation at the COP28 held in Dubai.
The discussions further emphasized the pressing need to enhance the capacity of CSOs and the media for advocacy in environmental sustainability and protection of the environment.
As a symbol of their commitment and dedication to addressing Nigeria’s transition towards sustainable energy, the HEDA team presented copies of the ETP review to the Minister. This partnership holds great promise in addressing critical issues and fostering positive change in Nigeria.