The European Union (EU), in its ongoing commitment to supporting the Federal Government of Nigeria in providing clean, affordable, and sustainable energy for all, has introduced two new projects totaling €9 million in Nigeria’s energy sector.
Announced during a project inception workshop in Abuja on Tuesday, in collaboration with the Federal Government and the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, these initiatives are part of the EU Global Gateway Strategy.
This strategy aims to enhance connectivity, foster economic growth, and promote sustainability through collaboration.
One of the projects, the Small Hydro Power Development for Agro-industry Use in Nigeria (SHP-DAIN), is a three-year endeavor with a budget of €5 million.
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The other project, Advancing Nigeria’s Green Transition to Net Zero through Circular Economy Practices, also spans three years with a budget of €4 million.
Both projects will be implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization.
The SHP-DAIN project seeks to increase the capacity of small hydropower in Nigeria’s energy mix, particularly for agricultural and industrial purposes.
It aims to promote productivity along agricultural value chains, enhance livelihoods, and bolster food security and decent work.
Meanwhile, the Circular Economy Practices project aims to improve the management of used off-grid energy equipment and plastics through circular economy principles.
It seeks to mitigate pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by strengthening policy frameworks, supporting the private sector in developing business models for circular economy practices, and enhancing awareness and visibility.
Speaking at the official launch of the projects in Abuja, EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms. Samuela Isopi, emphasized the importance of private sector participation for the success of these initiatives.
Minister of Power, Adelabu Adebayo, expressed confidence in the projects’ ability to enhance energy management, increase agricultural productivity, and improve livelihoods.
He inaugurated Project Steering Committees to oversee the successful implementation of these endeavors.
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