The Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Usman Ododo, recently paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology in Abuja to extend his heartfelt gratitude to the Honourable Minister, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji Nwakibie. The visit was to thank the Minister for selecting Confluence University in Kogi State as the site for the groundbreaking ceremony of Nigeria’s first ultra-modern Energy College.
The Energy College aims to provide both short-term and full-term courses across various renewable energy fields, including hydro, wind, solar, and hydrogen energy. This institution will address the critical manpower gap in technical skills required to support Nigeria’s growing renewable energy sector. Moreover, it will serve as a hub for research and development in renewable energy, fostering collaboration among scientists, academics, and professionals dedicated to advancing sustainable energy solutions.
Governor Ododo, a distinguished chartered public accountant with deep insights into Kogi State’s local economy, spoke highly of the Energy College, referring to it as an "Alternative Financial Energy Source" for the people of Kogi State. He emphasized that the positive impact of the college would soon be felt across the state's economy and by its citizens. Before his election as governor in 2023, Ododo served as the Auditor General for local government and holds degrees in accounting and business administration.
Governor Ododo highlighted the severe impact of previous flood disasters on Kogi State, which caused extensive damage to farmlands, livestock, and businesses, with losses exceeding six billion Naira. These disasters led to significant youth migration in search of opportunities elsewhere. The establishment of the Energy College represents a renewed hope for Kogi State, promising to revitalize the local economy and attract individuals from across Nigeria to study and work in the state.
During the visit, Governor Ododo expressed his gratitude to the Honourable Minister for selecting Kogi State for this transformative project and also acknowledged the President’s commitment to providing the necessary resources to ensure the project’s swift completion and the timely commencement of its academic programs.
Responding to Governor Ododo, Chief Uche Nnaji thanked the President for his dedication to Nigeria’s renewable energy sector through the Energy Transition Initiative. He highlighted that Nigerians will benefit from reduced costs on goods and services as Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion centers increase the availability of climate-friendly, cost-effective vehicles. Chief Nnaji further stated that the Energy College would supply skilled manpower to emerging renewable energy businesses, including the Solar PV Module Assembly Plant.
Chief Nnaji emphasized that Nigeria’s ability to compete and thrive in the 21st century hinges on the deployment of technological innovation rather than solely relying on natural resource exploitation. He underscored the importance of prioritizing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education to build the skilled workforce needed for national development. He also noted his ministry’s commitment to fostering growth in indigenous technologies by rewarding 36 innovators in science and technology.
In closing, Chief Uche Nnaji warmly thanked Governor Ododo and his delegation for their visit and expressed his appreciation for the governor’s strong support of federal investments in innovation, science, and technology in Kogi State.
It is often said that the human brain functions like a parachute—it only works when it is deployed. Through skill development and education, we can unlock the potential of our youth, fostering productive enterprise while reducing crime and poverty by creating gainfully employed citizens.
Thank you, Honourable Minister Chief Uche Nnaji Nwakibie, for your transformative leadership in the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology.
Wealthy nations leverage innovation, science, and technology to solve complex problems.
With this commitment, Nigeria shall rise again
Bishop Chinedu Nwoye
