AUTHORITY NEWS
By Mercy Aikoye
The House of Representatives Committee on Renewable Energy has invited stakeholders to an investigative public hearing on the $2 billion renewable energy grants and investments in Nigeria. The hearing, scheduled for November 5th and 6th, 2024, aims to probe the utilization of these funds, which have failed to yield significant improvements in the energy sector.
According to Hon. Victor Ogene, Chairman of the Committee, the investigation will cover the period from 2015 to 2024. The House of Representatives mandated the Committee to investigate Ministries, Departments, and Agencies involved in renewable energy investments and grants.
The Rural Electrification Agency reported that Nigeria attracted over $2 billion in renewable energy investments in the past decade, yet the electricity generation and supply system remains dysfunctional. This has raised concerns about the integrity of procurement and execution processes.
The investigation seeks to promote transparency and objectivity in handling government resources. Hon. Ogene emphasized that the probe is not intended to witch-hunt but to ensure accountability.
Lawmaker Okey-Joe Onuakalusi sponsored the motion leading to the investigation, highlighting the threats poor electricity generation, transmission, and distribution pose to Nigeria’s industrial and technological development.
