By Stella Odueme
The Electricity Hub (TEH), a subsidiary of Nextier, has engaged a panel of experts to discuss strategies for expanding renewable energy and improving energy efficiency in Nigeria, using the platform of its 99th Power Dialogue, hosted in Abuja.
Focusing on “Enhancing Energy Access in Nigeria through Effective Public Awareness Campaigns”, the event highlighted practical solutions and innovative initiatives to tackle the country’s pressing energy challenges.
The panellists included Jacquelyn Mando, Chief Operating Officer of Clean Technology Hub; Simisola Sobowale, Business Development Executive at Havenhill Synergy Limited; Jennifer Anya, Program Associate for the Nigeria Off-Grid Market Acceleration Program; and Ibilola Essien, Communication Specialist at Sustainable Energy for All(SEForAll).
Drawing on their extensive experience and insights, they discussed Nigeria’s current energy access state, focusing on rural communities excessively affected by energy deficits.
Jennifer Anya emphasised the necessity of building local capacity to manage and sustain renewable energy systems, reducing reliance on foreign experts. She highlighted the positive impact of the Energizing Economies and Energizing Education initiatives in fostering curiosity and trust in renewable solutions among communities.
Anya also noted how reliable energy sources have catalysed local economic development, supporting small businesses and agricultural processing.
Ibilola Essien shared insights on segmenting communication to address specific community needs. Drawing from SEForAll’s success with initiatives like clean cooking advocacy, she explained how culturally, and socially tailored communication strategies are critical for encouraging energy adoption.
Essien stressed that successful messaging often requires incentives and pointed to green building standards as a model for other sectors.
Jacquelyn Mando discussed her organisation’s approach to raising awareness through community-level education and school outreach. She elaborated on how Clean Tech Hub engages with educational institutions and rural communities to teach renewable energy principles, making the information accessible to all ages.
Mando also highlighted the effectiveness of the organisation’s online resources and e-learning platforms in helping individuals understand the value of energy-efficient choices.
Simisola Sobowale emphasised the significance of using culturally relevant storytelling techniques, such as “Ewi” in Yoruba culture, to effectively engage rural audiences. By incorporating traditional communication methods, she argued that renewable energy advocates can foster a deeper connection with local communities, making information about renewable practices more accessible and relatable.
Additionally, Sobowale addressed the financial barriers many Nigerians face in adopting renewable energy, underscoring the need to simplify information about financing options and instalment payment plans offered by banks and government programs.
Furthermore, the panellists emphasised the importance of community involvement, noting that local leaders and influencers are vital in driving participation in energy initiatives. Suggestions included engaging local governments and businesses, enhancing capacity building, and developing clear communication strategies to convey the benefits of renewable energy and energy-efficient practices effectively.
