In recent years, Nigeria has diverse formidable adversary: Energy Poverty. This pervasive issue has garnered widespread recognition, with a staggering 55% of the population, comprising millions of Nigerians, enduring the harsh realities of inadequate access to clean, reliable, and sustainable energy sources.
The ramifications of this energy deficit are manifold, particularly evident in rural households where reliance on costly and environmentally detrimental energy alternatives like firewood, generators, and kerosene lamps persists. These sources not only exacerbate socioeconomic disparities but also inflict significant harm on the environment, contributing to climate change and posing health risks.
Compounding these challenges is the adverse impact on businesses and commercial enterprises across diverse sectors, resulting in suboptimal productivity, resource wastage, and diminished financial returns. Such adverse conditions have prompted a considerable number of manufacturing companies to relocate operations beyond Nigeria’s borders, thereby amplifying the economic downturn, fostering dependence on imported goods, and driving inflationary pressures on commodities and services.
The ripple effects of energy poverty permeate various facets of society, from education and healthcare to agriculture and hospitality, stunting overall economic development. To address these multifaceted challenges, a paradigm shift towards clean energy solutions is imperative. Renewable energy sources offer a promising pathway, providing sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels while aligning with global sustainability frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement.
Interestingly, women emerge as central protagonists in this endeavor, assuming pivotal roles in household energy usage and management, as well as in small-scale businesses reliant on energy. As primary energy stakeholders, women wield considerable influence in energy decision-making processes, thereby presenting a unique opportunity to accelerate the adoption and promotion of clean energy solutions.
Recognizing this potential, several organizations in Nigeria are championing initiatives aimed at empowering women in the clean energy sector. Entities like the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN), All On, Clean Cooking Alliance, and Solar Sister are at the forefront, providing women with access to training, financing, and networking platforms. By fostering gender-inclusive policies, promoting clean cooking objectives, and empowering rural women, these organizations catalyze positive change at grassroots and policy levels alike.
Despite commendable strides, women’s representation in the energy sector remains disproportionate. Efforts to bolster female participation in STEM fields, facilitate access to finance, and support women entrepreneurs are indispensable for bridging this gap. Initiatives such as the Solar Sister program and the Rural Electrification Agency’s Women’s Solar Engineers Program exemplify the transformative potential of women’s involvement in driving clean energy adoption and local economic development.
Moving forward, policies and initiatives aimed at advancing clean energy in Nigeria must prioritize gender inclusivity and address the specific needs and challenges faced by women. Elevating clean cooking objectives on national agendas, integrating gender-responsive policies, and fostering entrepreneurship among women are crucial steps towards realizing a more inclusive and sustainable energy landscape.
Conclusion
Clean energy
The transition to clean energy presents not only a necessity but also an opportunity for Nigeria to flourish sustainably. Women, positioned at the forefront of this transition, wield the power to drive change and empowerment within their communities. By embracing advocacy efforts and empowerment initiatives, Nigeria can harness the full potential of its female workforce to pave the way for a more equitable and environmentally sound energy future.
Source: vanguard.ng
