By Abigael Joshua
The Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP), an NGO, has called for urgent action to ensure women’s full and equitable inclusion in energy transition.
Dr Michael David, the Executive-Director of GIFSEP, made the call on Friday in Abuja while addressing a news conference.
“A just energy transition in Nigeria must prioritise equity, inclusiveness, and community ownership ensuring that no one, especially women and the poor, is left behind.
“Energy is not just power, it’s health, education, and opportunity. World leaders must remember that renewable energy access is not charity, it’s a human right
“Recognising this gap, GIFSEP has taken proactive steps to empower women as key drivers of Nigeria’s energy transition through the Women Voices for Renewable Energy in Nigeria initiative with support of Social Change Nest and Urban Movement Innovation Fund,” David explained.
He expressed concern that the persistent energy poverty stifles economic development, worsens inequality, and keeps millions trapped in cycles of hardship.
“Nigeria stands at a crossroad. The country’s dependence on oil, gas, and coal particularly in the Niger Delta and North Central regions continues to fuel greenhouse gas emissions, air and water pollution, and severe environmental degradation.
“Gas flaring and fossil fuel combustion release significant amounts of methane and carbon dioxide, driving both climate change and environmental injustice in host communities.
“For decades, the petroleum industry has caused untold damage to the environment and to the lives and livelihoods of local people especially women, who bear the brunt of poverty, health risks, and loss of livelihoods.
“Meanwhile, in spite of being Africa’s largest economy, over 85 million Nigerians more than 40 per cent of the population still lack access to electricity,” he said.
David further stated that families across rural Nigeria continue to depend on kerosene, firewood, and diesel generators options that are expensive, unsafe, and harmful to human health and the environment.
“The consequences are especially severe for women and girls, who spend hours fetching firewood and are exposed to dangerous indoor smoke, losing valuable time for education, income generation, and rest.
“Nigeria is blessed with abundant renewable energy resources, especially solar energy, with an average annual solar irradiation of 1,600-2,200 kWh/m².
“This potential can provide clean, affordable, and reliable power for homes, schools, clinics, and small businesses and transform the lives of millions,” he explained.
According to him, progress remains slow, hindered by weak implementation, policy inconsistency, and a growing skill gap in the renewable energy sector.
“Over the past three days, we held a Women for Renewable Energy Boot Camp, where we trained women and girls from fossil fuel-impacted communities to become solar technicians and clean energy advocates.
“Through hands-on sessions and mentorship, participants gained practical skills in solar installation, maintenance, and community energy education, preparing them to return to their communities as both practitioners and change agents for renewable energy adoption.
He called on government agencies, development partners, and the private sector to invest in women-led renewable energy solutions and scale up climate and adaptation finance that directly reaches local communities as the world prepares for COP 30.
Responding, Mrs Dorcas Nicarnor, Project Lead, Empowering Women Voices for Renewable Energy, commended GIFSEP for the Women for Renewable Energy Boot Camp, saying that the opportunity would help them lend their voices on renewable energy. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Sadiya Hamza
