The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has launched a Renewable Energy Training at the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID),as part of its sustained efforts to promote youth inclusion and capacity building in Nigeria’s clean energy sector.
The eight-week programme, which commenced at the UNIMAID campus, is designed to equip 100 students with foundational knowledge and practical skills in renewable energy.
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It is strategically located at the site of the 12MW solar hybrid power plant built under Phase II of the World Bank–funded Energizing Education Programme (EEP).
Speaking at the launch, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of REA, Abba Abubakar Aliyu,highlighted the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the country’s energy transition.
“The REA has already deployed clean energy infrastructure across the country, and as Nigeria is moving towards becoming the renewable energy hub of Africa, these assets require not only funding but, most importantly, a pipeline of skilled young professionals to manage, operate, and maintain them,”
The Head of the Nigeria Electrification Programme (NEP), Olufemi Akinyelure, urged participants to maximize the opportunity, stressing that skills development is key to securing Nigeria’s energy future. He assured the cohorts that similar initiatives will continue in universities where EEP projects are ongoing.
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The training, developed in collaboration with Astound Power, a youth-led renewable energy company, and MCC, contractors for the UNIMAID solar project, combines theoretical and hands-on learning to prepare participants for careers in the sector.
Founder and CEO of Astound Power, Shuaibu Abubakar, described the initiative as a deliberate investment in Nigeria’s future workforce.
“A future for the youth must involve the youth. By focusing on capacity development, this programme will cultivate a new generation of skilled workers, leaders, and innovators to drive Nigeria’s energy transition,” he said.
High-level dignitaries from the REA and the University of Maiduguri, including the Executive Director of Technical Services, Engr. Umar A. Umar; the Executive Director of Corporate Services, Ayoade Gboyega; the Chief Medical Director of UMTH, Prof. Ahmed Ahidjo; and the Acting Vice Chancellor of UNIMAID, were present at the event.
Over the years, the REA has complemented its renewable energy deployment initiatives with capacity-building programmes such as the EEP Female STEM Internship and the NEXTGen RESCO programme. These, according to the agency, are being optimized to secure a skilled workforce for Nigeria’s clean energy transition.
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The Renewable Energy Training Programme marks another milestone in the Federal Government’s agenda to accelerate youth empowerment, strengthen local expertise, and ensure the long-term sustainability of renewable energy infrastructure across the country.