Global warming is real in Nigeria, says Minister

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, on Friday said global warming is a reality in Nigeria.

The Minister made the comment at the virtual meeting organised by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in his office on Friday in Abuja, a statement signed by ministry spokesperson Afonja Ajibola said.

Dr Onu noted that an evidence for global warming in Nigeria is the drying up of Lake Chad, desertification and coastal flooding affecting many parts of the nation.

He called for inclusive energy transmission in Africa as this will support the social and economic prosperity of African nations.

According to the Minister, Africa accounts for 2-3% of world’s carbon dioxide emission that has varied enormous and energy resources which includes Natural Gas, Hydro Power, Biomass, nuclear and coal.

Onu further added that the enormous advantage to be derived from the Energy System can be effectively processed into final energies in the areas of abundance and be transported through inter-regional electric-grid connections, pipelines, roads/infrastructure to regions of resources deficiency.

Onu reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment in providing the enabling environment for private sector participation in the energy sector, adding that the Petroleum Industry Act of 2021 signed by President Muhammadu Buhari among other things seeks to promote investment in Natural Gas, Nigeria’s transition Fuel for electricity, fuel and non-energy usage.

The minister commended IRENA for its role in promoting renewable energy globally and for organizing the Ministerial meeting on just and inclusive energy transition in Africa.

(Channels TV)