BY ALLEN OLUWASEGUN DANIEL
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has opened on its far reaching, ongoing agenda to introduce and implement multi sectoral green economy and climate initiatives as tolls of state development.
The State’s consultant on climate change and renewable energy, Prof Chinwe Obuaku who represented Governor Ademola Adeleke made the disclosure at a twin event in Lagos namely the 11th German-Nigerian Business Forum and the West African Clean Energy & Environment Trade Fair and Conference (WACEE) under the theme “Sustainability Showcase: Stimulating Green Economy Investments.”
Advancing Osun as a prime destination for green economy investments, the Governor’s representative presented the state’s strategic vision for sustainable growth and emphasized the state’s readiness to embrace clean energy initiatives and drive environmentally responsible development.
While listing the enormous potential that Osun holds in sectors such as renewable energy, waste management, and eco-friendly infrastructure, the consultant expressed the state’s interests in investment opportunities in renewable energy, with a focus on cutting-edge solutions like energy efficiency, mini grids, and green hydrogen which are crucial components of Nigeria’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
She further offered valuable insights into how the public and private sectors can collaborate to harness these technologies for broader economic growth even as she highlighted how Osun State is positioning itself as a leader in clean energy by actively seeking partnerships and investments that focus on renewable energy integration, particularly in off-grid solutions and mini grids.
At the circular economy roundtable, Prof Obuaku who identified challenges facing circular economy challenges in Nigeria cited Osun State’s ongoing efforts, where attention is focussed on creation of a conducive environment for circular economy businesses.
“In Osun, we’ve developed policies that provide financial incentives, such as tax breaks and grants, to encourage businesses to adopt sustainable practices. We’ve also been working on establishing public-private partnerships that leverage private sector innovation and government resources to scale circular economy initiatives.
“One such example is our commitment to improving waste-to-energy projects, which convert agricultural and household waste into sustainable energy sources, reducing environmental degradation while creating economic value”, the consultant told the audience.
“Osun State remains committed to sustainability, and the steps we are taking serve as a model that other states can replicate. By focusing on renewable energy investments, waste management innovations, and strong public-private partnerships, Osun is leading the charge in creating a green economy that benefits both the environment and the local population.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure that the policies and practices we implement today will lead to long-term economic growth and environmental preservation, both in Osun and across Nigeria”, the representative of the Governor posited.
Other highlights of the event include the meeting with representatives of the Nigerian German Chamber of Commerce with a membership offer that would open doors for Osun-based businesses to access a network of German and international companies, facilitating potential investments and partnerships in key sectors like renewable energy, manufacturing, and sustainable agriculture.