The 36 state governors have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China to boost renewable energy and end the current energy crisis in Nigeria.

The pact was signed at the Secretariat of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) in Abuja on Thursday

Gombe State governor and Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, Alhaji Inuwa Yahaya who spoke on behalf of the NGF Chairman and Kwara State governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, said the MoU was a significant step in ensuring the electricity security of the sub-nationals.

“It is crucial to acknowledge the transformative journey that Nigeria is embarking upon in the area of access to sustainable electricity, which includes renewable energy, particularly in the wake of the recently passed Electricity Act of 2023.

‘’This groundbreaking legislation marked a pivotal moment for our energy landscape, introducing innovative structures that aim to boost investments and enhance the reliability of power supply across the country.”

Also, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, said, ‘’The scope of this MoU includes, Deployment of renewable energy infrastructure (solar, wind, hydro), and establishment of a Nigeria-China Renewable Energy Research Centre to drive innovation, technology transfer, and capacity-building.

‘’This initiative will not only improve energy access, especially in off-grid communities, but also support job creation, investment, and our climate commitments,” he added.

In his remarks, the Director General of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Dr. Abdullateef Shittu said, ‘’Since the passing of the Electricity Act, the NGF has being playing a pivotal role supporting and coordinating the efforts of states in their implementation of the Act.

’In addition, the NGF has established a robust Power Desk, which is saddled with the critical role of coordinating the efforts of the states as they strive to implement the Electricity Act.”

The Chairman of the China Energy Commission, Dr. Song Liang pledged full implementation of the MoU and ensured full cooperation between Nigeria and China.