Prof. Iledare Advocates for Energy Accessibility, Affordability, and Adaptability
At the Nigeria Independent Energy Summit (NIES), Prof. Wumi Iledare, Executive Director of the Emmanuel Egbogah Foundation, emphasized the need for a holistic approach to energy access in Nigeria, stressing the importance of innovation and effective policy frameworks.
Speaking during a panel session, Prof. Iledare outlined four key pillars for energy access expansion: availability, affordability, adaptability, and sustainability. He noted that while Nigeria has comprehensive petroleum and natural gas policy documents, inconsistency in implementation has hindered long-term energy security and sustainability.
Expanding Energy Access Through Innovation
Iledare underscored the need for innovative solutions and policies to expand energy access. He highlighted that the country’s gas-to-power policy framework must include effective pricing mechanisms to ensure accessibility. Additionally, he pointed out that deregulation of the downstream sector has improved access to petroleum products and enhanced transportation systems, thereby facilitating broader energy availability.
Affordability and Equitable Pricing
According to Iledare, energy affordability is a crucial aspect of expansion, as having abundant energy resources is meaningless if people lack the financial capacity to utilize them. He advocated for a progressive pricing mechanism where luxury energy consumption attracts higher rates, ensuring equitable access for all citizens.
Adaptability and Public Education
Another key aspect of energy expansion, Iledare stated, is adaptability, which requires extensive public education. He likened energy payment models to Nigeria’s prevalent pay-per-minute telephone system, suggesting that electronic payment structures based on actual energy usage could replace the current estimated billing system.
Sustainability for Future Generations
Iledare stressed that sustainability is fundamental to energy access expansion. He warned that prosperity without posterity is meaningless, urging leaders to adopt a transformational mindset rather than a transactional approach to energy policies. He emphasized that ensuring long-term energy sustainability would position Nigeria as a leading energy hub in Africa.
Call for Effective Policy Implementation
In his concluding remarks, Iledare called on the government to rigorously implement the provisions of the Electricity Act. He urged policymakers to engage experts who understand the law’s intent to ensure its effective execution.
“Nigeria has the potential to lead Africa in energy access and security, but only if we adopt sustainable policies and innovative solutions. The time to act is now,” he concluded.
