Niger State Commissioner Urges Bold Investment in Renewable Energy Research

Honourable Suleiman Umar, Niger State Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, says the surest way to empower Nigerian youths through the power sector is for both federal and state governments to make bold investments in universities focused on renewable energy training and research. He added that the initiative aligns with the New Niger Agenda of Farmer Governor Umaru Bago, which places youth development, job creation, and sustainable infrastructure at the heart of governance.

The Commissioner made the remarks during a media discussion with his media team on youth empowerment, where he reflected on the Rural Electrification Agency’s recent proposal to establish the first Renewable University in Nigeria. He described the proposal as a timely and important step that can transform the prospects of young people and strengthen the country’s energy future.

“The plan to set up a dedicated Renewable University, in partnership with development partners, is the kind of forward-looking move Nigeria needs,” Hon. Suleiman Umar said. “If we want to build real capacity in the power sector, we cannot keep relying on foreign expertise. We must train our engineers, technicians, and researchers here at home.”

He emphasized that the proposed university, which the REA says will be the first green university in Africa, should be developed through close collaboration between the federal government and the states. For him, the most practical approach is to affiliate it with existing state universities of technology. “Niger State is well placed for this kind of partnership through the Federal University of Technology Minna. Our youths need hands-on learning in solar, wind, mini-grid, and energy storage, not just theory in a classroom."

Hon. Suleiman Umar stressed that deliberate policies are needed to make the university effective from day one. That means providing research funding, creating scholarship opportunities, upgrading technical colleges, and encouraging private sector partnerships that connect students to real projects on the ground.

For Niger State, he said the Ministry of Power and Renewable Energy is prepared to work with the REA, development partners, and academic institutions to ensure local youths benefit directly. “Our vision is for Niger youths to move from being job seekers to becoming problem solvers — designing systems, managing projects, and leading innovation in renewable energy.”

He added that with the right investment in research and training, renewable energy can become a major driver of youth employment, local manufacturing, and energy independence across Nigeria.

A.B Makama 

Media Strategist To Honorable Commissioner Power and Renewable Energy