The first-panel session at SITEI 2024 focused on the critical role of multi-stakeholder engagement in crafting effective policies for Nigeria’s green transition. Moderated by Olumide Idowu, Executive Director of the International Climate Change Development Initiative (ICCDI Africa), the discussion featured insights from various experts committed to advancing sustainable growth.
Key discussion themes and insights
Opening Remarks:
Olumide Idowu opened the session by emphasising the necessity for inclusive participation in the energy transition, questioning the viability of moving forward within the Nigerian economy without broad engagement.
Adopting a Bottom-Up Approach:
Dr. Bunmi Akinlade, Technical Advisor at the Office of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), stressed the importance of a bottom-up approach in policy-making. She highlighted that traditional top-down methods often exclude vital local input. By engaging communities and local stakeholders, policies can be more effectively tailored to meet the needs of those they affect, allowing for meaningful feedback and collaboration.
Creating Awareness and Education:
Dr. Victoria Gbadegesin, Visiting Fellow at Cambridge University, echoed Dr. Akinlade’s sentiments, underscoring the need for public awareness about sustainability and the stakes involved. She advocated for educational initiatives that leverage media and social platforms to inform citizens about policies that impact their lives, fostering a sense of responsibility and engagement in the transition to sustainability.
Involving marginalised communities:
Addressing the inclusion of marginalised communities in policy development, Dele Ayanleke, National President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, acknowledged the crucial role of solid minerals in the green energy transition. He emphasised the importance of educating these communities on sustainability policies and highlighted the significance of community development agreements as a foundation for sustainable mining practices.
Collaboration for Sustainable Impact:
Lucy Okeke, Senior Manager for Environment & Community at NMDPRA, pointed out the Miners Association’s role in enhancing the social and economic impacts of mining through stakeholder collaboration. The panellists agreed that building partnerships across sectors is essential for driving the green agenda forward.
Challenges to Green Growth:
The discussion also touched on the challenges Nigeria faces in its energy transition, particularly in infrastructure and funding. The speakers called for local experts to lead sustainable energy policies, noting that local solutions are critical to advancing clean energy initiatives.
Closing Thoughts: A Collaborative Path Forward
The session concluded with a strong consensus on the need for collaborative and inclusive policy development to drive Nigeria’s shift to green growth. Panellists highlighted the importance of engaging diverse stakeholders—especially local communities—in the decision-making process. By fostering awareness, education, and collaboration, Nigeria can pave the way for a sustainable future that not only addresses environmental concerns but also uplifts marginalised populations.
Overall, Panel Session 1 underscored that achieving a successful energy transition requires a collective effort and commitment to inclusivity, education, and strategic partnerships.