OMOGBOLAHAN BABAWALE
Whether in their twos or threes, in their groups or covens or whether within political circles or otherwise, the whispers have always been about commendation of a young Nigerian, re-writing the history of the country in her energy wherewithal. Never in the history of the Commission has there been a head with such charisma, such zeal and such can-do spirit to make positive impact. Again, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director-General/Chief Executive Officer, Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), has shown himself as one of the hierophants of the #RenewedHope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
Dr. Abdullahi’s leadership has no doubt taken the lead energy agency in the country from its near obscurity into prominence, not only in African but also on continental and global stages. Today, many Nigerians now know, unlike what used to be obtainable, that there is an agency called the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) that is responsible for anything and everything energy in its entirety. The Commission’s head has not left anyone in doubt as to his vision for the Commission – to drive a sustainable energy revolution that conforms with Mr. President’s vision of an energy unboundling that is safe, eco-friendly and that which makes life a lot more livable for the generality of the populace.
Ipso facto, akin to his employer – Mr. President’s affirmative action, Dr. Abdullahi started walking his visionary talk from day one of his assumption of office. The media space is replete with his milestones in less than two years in the office. Visible and measurable landmarks that distinguish him from other appointees of same administration. It is no flabbergasting therefore, that Dr. Abdullahi has been regarded, in many quarters, as one of the sharp, committed, and highly resourceful appointees of President Tinubu since coming on board barely 28 months ago. A man whose words have hitherto been his bond.
A further testament of his can-do-ism is the recent signing of a critical Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by his agency – the Energy Commission with key stakeholders, as well as the inauguration of the National Committee on Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency, Innovation & Certification (NCREEIC) at the Ministry of Innovation, Science & Technology’s Headquarters in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The newly inaugurated committee is expected, would drive clean energy research, strengthen stakeholders synergy, promote local and international collaborations and content development. It is also expected to establish global certification standards, positioning Nigeria as a regional leader in renewable energy.
Taking a bold step towards a sustainable energy future that aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda which further expands access to clean, affordable alternative power, creats jobs, and fosters long-term economic growth is not an end in itself; Dr. Abdullahi is also ensuring a workforce that syncs in togetherness to build a greener and more resilient Nigeria. It is for this reason that the Energy Commission under his ascendancy convened ECN Energy Update Bootcamp that was launched in Kigali, Rwanda 3 days ago with the theme: “Innovations & Technologies in Renewable Energy for Nigeria’s Energy Transition.” The bootcamp would, on one hand, serve as morale booster for the workforce as part of his human capital development vision for the Commission, and on the other hand, provide a platform that unites stakeholders to share advancements, foster regional cooperation, and develop strategies to accelerate Nigeria’s shift to sustainable energy.
The bootcamp’s panel sessions and roundtables expected to drive innovation, promote renewable technologies, and strengthen partnerships for data-driven, decentralized energy solutions is another commitment from the Commission to lead Nigeria’s energy transition through collaboration and innovation. A pointer to the leadership qualities of Dr. Abdullahi as a go-getter with actionable solutions to Nigeria’s energy needs. The Renewed Hope administration, and indeed, Nigeria in general is blessed with Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi’s leadership prowess.
Omogbolahan L.A BABAWALE is the Convener/Lead Resource Person of The Think-Tinubu Initiative (3TI). He writes from Lagos. officialczar2@gmail.com
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