By Adeyemi Adekunle
The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) has called for deliberate efforts to integrate renewable energy sources into Nigeria’s national grid as a solution to the country’s persistent energy challenges. The association emphasized that prioritizing energy storage innovations and adopting sustainable policies are critical steps to achieving energy security and addressing the country’s reliance on inadequate fossil fuel-based systems.
The recommendation was made at the conclusion of APWEN’s 2024 International Conference, Exhibition, and Annual General Meeting held in Calabar, Cross River State. The conference, which brought together engineers, policymakers, and energy experts, focused on addressing Nigeria’s energy challenges and the role of innovation in creating a sustainable future.
In a communiqué signed by APWEN President, Dr. Adebisi Osim, and the Chairman of the Technical Committee, Dr. Tolulope Erinosho, the group identified regulatory bottlenecks, insufficient infrastructure, limited technological adoption, and fragmented gas networks as significant factors hindering progress in the energy sector. APWEN stressed the need for targeted policies that support renewable energy integration and ensure implementation is led by professionals with technical expertise.
The group pointed to biofuels as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels that could help reduce carbon emissions while meeting growing energy demands.
It urged the government and private sector to scale up production by supporting startups with funding, technical capacity, and policies that ensure affordability for low-income households.
APWEN also called for increased public awareness about the benefits of biofuels to drive adoption as part of Nigeria’s decarbonization strategy.
The association highlighted the importance of addressing gender imbalances within the engineering sector, arguing that women bring unique perspectives to innovation and problem-solving.
It noted that Nigeria’s renewable energy sector, where 37 percent of jobs are held by women, is evidence of the contributions female engineers can make when given leadership opportunities. The group recommended the creation of women-specific financing programs, incubation hubs, and training initiatives to nurture female entrepreneurs in Nigeria’s energy sector, stating that such measures would unlock their potential to drive sustainable solutions.
APWEN further underscored the need for capacity building through continuous training for young engineers, including women, to strengthen technical skills and foster innovation. The association pointed out that the energy sector remains one of the fastest-growing industries globally, with significant opportunities for renewable solutions such as solar power, mini-grids, biogas, and energy storage technologies. It stressed that Nigeria must embrace these options to keep pace with global trends.
The communiqué also called for a robust framework to address the fragmentation of Nigeria’s gas infrastructure networks, which it described as a major obstacle to achieving energy security. APWEN recommended the use of smart technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to improve efficiency in energy storage, distribution, and management.
While acknowledging the challenges, APWEN emphasized that deliberate government action, stakeholder collaboration, and entrepreneurial innovation are essential for driving sustainable solutions. It urged policymakers to support local energy entrepreneurs through targeted frameworks that enable growth and business viability.
The association noted that although Nigeria has significant natural and human resources, a lack of investment and policy consistency has slowed progress in the energy sector. It highlighted opportunities in solar power, biogas, waste-to-energy, and AI-driven energy innovations as key areas that could transform Nigeria’s energy landscape and provide affordable power to underserved communities.
Dr. Osim, speaking on behalf of the association, said Nigeria’s energy crisis requires urgent and strategic intervention. She emphasized that integrating renewable energy into the national grid would not only ensure a reliable power supply but also reduce environmental impacts and promote economic growth. She also stressed that supporting women engineers and entrepreneurs in the energy sector was vital for driving innovation and achieving sustainable solutions.
The association called on all levels of government to collaborate with engineers, investors, and stakeholders to implement solutions that address infrastructure gaps, regulatory challenges, and public awareness. It emphasized that innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability must form the foundation of Nigeria’s energy transformation.
It also made a call to action for the government to demonstrate commitment to renewable energy integration and to provide a supportive environment for innovation. APWEN stated that with the right investments, policies, and professional expertise, Nigeria can address its energy challenges and create a sustainable future for all citizens.
