In a momentous occasion on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) marked a significant milestone of over two decades by introducing and popularizing two crucial books on the nation's energy landscape: the National Energy Policy (NEP) and the National Energy Master Plan (NEMP). The event, held at the renowned Auditorium Hall of the Petroleum Training Development Fund (PTDF) in Abuja, garnered the presence of esteemed members of the Federal Executive Cabinet (FEC) who joined hands to support Chief Uche G. Nnaji, the Honourable Minister for Innovation, Science, and Technology, who chaired the occasion, along with other key stakeholders in the energy sector.
Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), expressed his heartfelt gratitude during the welcome address, acknowledging the esteemed dignitaries who graced the event despite their busy schedules. He particularly thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Chairman of the ECN Board, for his unwavering support in steering Nigeria towards a greener economy. Dr. Abdullahi emphasized the pivotal role of the Commission in fostering a safer environment and a cleaner energy economy, highlighting how the NEP aims to harness all viable energy resources for sustainable development while providing guidance for investors, development partners, and scholars.
He underscored the official recognition bestowed upon the documents, emphasizing their legal authority, clarity, and consistency in policy direction, which will facilitate enforcement and implementation. The culmination of over 21 years of effort marked a significant achievement for the Commission, starting from the conception of the NEMP and NEP in April 2003 and the subsequent inauguration of the National Committee on Energy Masterplan (NCEM) in May 2006.
The momentous event witnessed the presence of key figures such as Chief Uche G. Nnaji, Minister of Defence H.E Abubakar Badaru, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Atiku Bagudu, and other notable stakeholders in the energy sector. Chief Uche G. Nnaji underscored the alignment of the new energy drive with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope agenda, while Mrs. Olu Verheijen, the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, highlighted the administration's efforts in revitalizing the economy and ensuring environmental sustainability.
The event, meticulously organized by the Media and Publicity Unit of the Commission, witnessed heartfelt goodwill messages from various dignitaries, culminating in group photographs and a convivial cocktail for the invited guests, marking a historic moment in Nigeria's energy landscape.
