Nigeria loses over ₦2 billion every year as a result of its unreliable power supply, according to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

This was revealed by UNDP Resident Representative, Elsie Attafuah, during the First National Legislative Conference and Expo on Renewable Energy held in Lagos.

The event, organized by the House of Representatives Committee on Renewable Energy in collaboration with the UNDP’s Parliamentary Development Programme, focused on addressing the nation’s energy crisis and finding solutions for a sustainable future.

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Attafuah highlighted how Nigeria’s inadequate power supply severely affects agricultural productivity, with perishable crops such as yam, fruits, and vegetables often spoiling due to the lack of electricity for preservation. She also pointed out that the energy shortfall is contributing to the growing issues of unemployment and poverty in the country.

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Attafuah also shared that the UNDP has recently launched projects to assist farmers in some northern states by providing them with power-generating facilities. These initiatives have already shown positive results, with farmers experiencing increased productivity and higher profits.

Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, emphasized the urgent need for Nigeria to transition to renewable energy. He explained that this shift is necessary to safeguard the country’s economic stability, ensure energy security, and protect the environment. Abbas also shared that the House is actively making legislative moves, such as removing VAT on renewable energy and compressed natural gas (CNG), to attract investment in the renewable energy sector.

Abbas noted the global trend toward renewable energy, with 92% of new power generation in 2024 expected to come from renewable sources. He urged that Nigeria, which remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels, must quickly adapt to avoid economic risks in the future.

He added that lawmakers are working to strengthen the legal framework surrounding the federal government’s Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Policy (2015), and are engaging with stakeholders to promote the adoption of clean cooking fuels for public health and environmental benefits.

Victor Ogene, Chairman of the House Committee on Renewable Energy, emphasized the importance of reducing Nigeria’s reliance on fossil fuels to foster industrial growth and create jobs. He described the conference as an essential step toward accelerating the nationwide adoption of clean energy.

Representatives from Abia, Enugu, and Osun States also participated in the event, calling for urgent improvements in power access and the development of a more reliable energy infrastructure.

Among other dignitaries were Prof. Benard Afliator from Ghana’s Parliament, Anika Altaf from the INCLUDE Knowledge Platform, and various state energy officials who collectively underscored the need for collaborative action in addressing Nigeria’s energy challenges.

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Nollywood actress and producer Ruth Kadiri has shared her excitement after receiving special recognition from YouTube for her contributions as a digital storyteller.

In a recent Instagram post, Kadiri revealed she was celebrated by YouTube just ahead of its 20th anniversary. She was named among four influential female creators who are reshaping the platform through powerful storytelling and fostering global cultural connections.