Throwback Friday:From Vision to Reality: Building Nigeria’s First Barefoot Renewable Energy College in Kogi State

Today, I am honoured to look back on a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward sustainable development and a successful transition to clean energy—the groundbreaking ceremony for the nation’s first Barefoot Renewable Energy College in Kogi State.

The establishment of this institution represents a bold and strategic response to the growing need for skilled manpower in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector. Through collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology and the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), this initiative seeks to harness Nigeria’s vast renewable energy potential while equipping our young people with the knowledge and practical skills required to drive the nation’s energy future.

Led by the DG/CEO, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, the vision is to establish a centre of excellence that will provide cutting-edge technical training, professional certifications, research opportunities, and practical experience for young Nigerians seeking careers in the renewable energy industry.

The college is designed to offer comprehensive training across key renewable energy technologies, including solar, wind, hydro, bioenergy, and other emerging areas. With modern facilities and instruction from experienced professionals, students will be positioned to acquire practical competencies capable of translating knowledge into real solutions for communities across Nigeria.

Beyond education and skills development, the institution has the potential to stimulate innovation, entrepreneurship, employment, research, and sustainable development, particularly in underserved and rural communities where reliable access to clean energy can significantly improve livelihoods.

The success of this vision will require the continued support and cooperation of the Kogi State Government, local communities, development partners, industry stakeholders, researchers, and other relevant institutions. Together, we can create an enabling environment where renewable energy innovation can flourish and practical solutions can be developed for Nigeria’s unique energy challenges.

I remain deeply grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support and leadership, as well as to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State for his valuable contributions toward making this vision a reality.

The establishment of the Barefoot Renewable Energy College is a reminder that transformative development begins with a vision and the determination to turn that vision into reality. We have not merely laid the foundation of a building; we have laid the foundation for a new generation of renewable energy professionals, innovators, entrepreneurs, and problem-solvers.

The journey ahead will require consistency, collaboration, dedication, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. With collective effort and sustained support, I am confident that this institution will contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s renewable energy revolution and help chart a new course for sustainable development.

The foundation has been laid. The vision is alive. The future of renewable energy education in Nigeria is taking shape.

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#BarefootRenewableEnergyCollegeI can also make this more political and campaign-focused, highlighting Chief Uche Nnaji’s role and achievements while keeping it professional and credible.