In a strategic move to enhance energy development at the sub-national level, Nigerian governors on Thursday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Energy China, a major Chinese firm renowned for its work in renewable energy and gas production. The agreement, which aims to deepen cooperation on clean energy, was formalized during a high-level meeting involving key stakeholders from Nigeria and China. Representing the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Gombe State Governor and Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, Alhaji Inuwa Yahaya, emphasized the importance of the partnership in strengthening energy governance, enhancing energy access, and fostering sustainable development across the states.
Governor Yahaya highlighted the significance of the recently passed Electricity Act of 2023, describing it as a “pivotal moment” in Nigeria’s energy journey. He noted that the legislation has opened up opportunities for decentralized power solutions, encouraged private sector investment, and empowered states to design their own energy markets. However, he also acknowledged persistent challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, regulatory bottlenecks, and financing gaps. Yahaya stressed that the MoU with Energy China presents an opportunity to address these issues through collaboration, innovation, and international support.
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, also spoke at the event, aligning the partnership with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He explained that the MoU covers key areas including the deployment of renewable energy infrastructure—solar, wind, and hydro—as well as the establishment of a Nigeria-China Renewable Energy Research Centre. The center will focus on technology transfer, innovation, and capacity-building. Nnaji noted that the initiative is designed to improve off-grid energy access, generate jobs, attract investment, and advance Nigeria’s climate commitments.
Dr. Song Liang, Chairman of the China Energy Commission, reaffirmed China’s commitment to fully implementing the terms of the MoU. He emphasized the importance of intelligence-sharing and prioritizing renewable energy development, particularly in areas such as energy storage and green technology. Liang described the partnership as the beginning of a new phase of cooperation between Nigeria and China in the energy sector. His sentiments were echoed by the Director General of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Dr. Abdullateef Shittu, who outlined the Forum’s ongoing support for states as they implement the Electricity Act.
Dr. Shittu noted that the NGF has established a Power Desk and a Forum of Commissioners of Power and Energy across all 36 states to coordinate energy reforms and promote best practices. He reaffirmed the NGF’s commitment to providing technical support, facilitating partnerships, and helping states navigate the responsibilities placed on them by the new electricity law. “There is no doubt that this relationship with the China Energy International Group will significantly accelerate energy access in the country,” he said. “The NGF stands ready to support its successful implementation.”
