TheCable

Adeleke Mamora, minister of science, technology and innovation, has called on youths to embrace the deployment of clean energy innovations across Nigeria.

The minister spoke on Thursday at a workshop organised for the Global Cleantech Innovation Program (GCIP) in Nigeria.

On Tuesday, the federal government inaugurated a project steering committee for GCIP — a programme designed to unleash the potential of clean-tech innovation and entrepreneurship, and respond to the increasing global demand for environmental sustainability and climate action.

The minister, represented by Peter Ekweozoh, director of environmental sciences and technology, said the global move toward clean energy for climate change mitigation and adaptation is one Nigeria hopes to adopt in key sectors of the economy.

“I am informed that the GCIP Nigeria is to be implemented over the next three years in three components,” the minister said.

“While component one is to be coordinated by the private sector, represented by Co-Creation Hub; component two is being implemented by the public sector, represented by FMSTI and Rural Electrification Agency (REA) while UNIDO is in charge of component three.

“It is pertinent to note that the world is currently moving towards the use of clean energy technology and FMSTI being aware of this is currently conducting technology needs assessment for climate change mitigation and adaptation in key sectors of the economy.

“There can be no better time to commence this project than now. I therefore call on all Nigerians, especially the young ones, to embrace and support deployment of clean energy innovations and solutions across the various sectors of the Nigerian economy.”

Also speaking at the workshop, Jean Bankole, regional director, UNIDO Nigeria, represented by Reuben Bamidele, national programme officer, UNIDO Nigeria, said the programme was designed to help SMEs and startups scale on a global level.

“This programme will help small and medium enterprises and identity startups to compete on a global market and connect them with potential investors, customers and partners through the global clean-tech network,” he said.

“The GCIP will help startups and SMEs in Nigeria to focus on promoting local clean technologies in order to achieve the sustainable development goals 7 and 13.”

On his part, Bosun Tijani, chief executive officer, Co-Creation Hub, said the project was significant as it was the first time the government, together with its partners, would be prioritising the development of the innovative ecosystem for clean technology in Nigeria.