Ogun Urged to Embrace Renewable Energy

The Abeokuta branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has called on the Ogun State government to pivot toward renewable energy as a strategic tool for mitigating carbon emissions and stimulating industrial growth. Engr. Olumayowa Idowu, the Chairman of the branch, issued the advisory on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, emphasizing that the shift to cleaner energy is no longer a luxury but an economic and environmental necessity for the state.

Speaking during a landmark event that featured the commissioning of a 6000W solar-powered inverter system for the society’s secretariat and an 18-seater Ford Transit bus, Idowu highlighted the unique position of Ogun State in the national energy transition. He noted that the state’s vast industrial clusters and sprawling residential estates provide a perfect landscape for large-scale solar adoption. According to the chairman, scaling these renewable solutions would drastically improve power reliability, reduce the current heavy reliance on diesel-powered generators, and provide a buffer against frequent grid outages.

“Nigeria is entering a new phase where renewable energy is no longer optional—it is essential,” Idowu stated, underscoring the urgency of the situation. He argued that if the state government replicates solar installations across major public offices, it would set a powerful precedent for the private sector. This transition, he explained, would not only lower local pollution but also significantly reduce operating costs for both households and businesses through long-term savings on fuel and electricity tariffs.

The NSE leader further noted that the engineering body remains committed to partnering with the government on infrastructure and digital transformation initiatives. Beyond policy advocacy, Idowu emphasized the society’s role in raising a new generation of competent young engineers capable of driving innovation in sustainable practices. He challenged his colleagues within the profession to continue collaborating on green technologies that have the potential to transform Nigerian society from the ground up.

As Ogun State continues to expand its industrial footprint, the NSE’s recommendation serves as a roadmap for balancing economic expansion with environmental responsibility. The push for a “human-faced” energy policy, as suggested by the engineers, aims to foster a resilient economy where productive activities are powered by clean, reliable, and affordable energy sources.