In a bold move to accelerate Nigeria’s low-carbon transition and unlock inclusive green employment, Advocacy for Policy and Innovation (API), Connected Advocacy, and the INCLUDE Knowledge Platform, in collaboration with the House Committee on Renewable Energy, convened the Merged-Zonal Africa Policy Dialogue (APD) Legislative Engagement and Green Job Fair in Benin City, Edo State.
The landmark event brought together lawmakers, renewable energy leaders, youth innovators, and private sector actors from across the South-South and South-West zones — uniting legislative vision with practical solutions for green job creation, renewable energy adoption, and inclusive economic growth.
More than just a dialogue, the event connected policy with practice — linking the draft National Inclusive Green Jobs Bill and National Green Skills Employment Alliance (NGSEA) to real employment pathways, skills development, and community-level ownership of Nigeria’s green growth agenda.
Declaring the dialogue open, Hon. Afam Victor Ogene, Chairman of the House Committee on Renewable Energy, reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to driving legislation that ensures an equitable and sustainable transition to a green economy.
He was joined by his Deputy, Hon. Iliyasu Aliyu Abubakar.
Abra Dangnan, Deputy Chair and CoP/APD Co-Lead, outlined the APD’s objectives and subnational strategy, while Mr. Aniebiet Obot, APD Co-Lead, presented progress on methodology and stakeholder engagement.
Prince Israel Orekha, Executive Director of Connected Advocacy and Zonal Coordinator for the South-South/South-West APD, led the organising committee and emphasised the importance of aligning legislative policy with community-level action.
Distinguished guests included:
Mr. Kenneth Iwoghiren, Director for Climate, representing the Commissioner, Edo State Ministry of Environment and Sustainability
Dr. Emeribe Chukwudi Nnaemeka, Chief Research Officer, Energy Commission of Nigeria
Engr. Osakwe Ize-Iyamu, Representative, NDDC Edo State
Chief Kelvin Edegie, the Edegin N Useh (Traditional Ruler)
Rev. Ogakwu Abaros Simeon, Immediate Past Vice Chairman, CAN (Edo State Chapter)
Goodwill messages underscored the need for inclusive, data-driven, and gender-responsive green policies to bridge existing gaps and ensure that Nigeria’s green transition leaves no one behind.
Paul Musa Emuekpere, of Connected Advocacy and Founder/President of TLN–Christ for the World, spoke on behalf of youth and students, calling for meaningful youth participation in the design and implementation of national green job initiatives, with strong internship and employment support mechanisms.
Panel Session: Powering Green Skills for the Future
The Green Jobs Fair Panel, moderated by Carl Oshodi-Isibor and Mrs. Adesuwa James Jang, featured thought leaders and entrepreneurs, including:
Prof. (Mrs) Georgina Erifeta, Professor of Ecotoxicology, Igbinedion University
Amb. Dr. Ogiemwonyi Brightence (SNR, JP), CEO, Brightence Electricals
Mrs. Edith Iyalomhe, CEO, Best-Cruse
Mrs. Irene Ipogah, Representative, NABTEB
Mr. Kenneth Iwoghiren, and President Aigbokhan, Executive Director, FOI
Private sector representatives from leading renewable energy firms reinforced the growing industry commitment to job creation through climate-smart investments, skills training, and local manufacturing.
Key Outcomes and Insights
Moderated by Prince Israel Orekha, the policy and technical sessions emphasised:
Harmonised data systems to identify regional needs and green market opportunities
Tailored policy frameworks reflecting local realities, informal sector participation, and TVET integration
Private sector incentives beyond CSR to stimulate manufacturing and innovation
Competency-based TVET–industry partnerships to boost employability
Inclusive participation of women, youth, and rural communities in green initiatives
Policy predictability and financing stability to enhance investor confidence
Pre- and post-event surveys revealed a notable rise in awareness of green career pathways, with youth and vocational institutions expressing intent to align training with market demand and pursue green apprenticeships.
Commitments and Next Steps
Integration of zonal recommendations into the NIGJA/NGSEA national drafts
Employer pledges for internship and apprenticeship placements
Establishment of regional follow-up coalitions among API, employers, and TVET institutions
Enhanced media and digital outreach to sustain momentum and public engagement
Conclusion
The South-South/South-West APD Dialogue in Benin City stands as a turning point for Nigeria’s green economy agenda — bridging legislation, innovation, and youth empowerment.
By fostering collaboration between policymakers, industry, and communities, the event demonstrated how subnational leadership can translate national climate commitments into real jobs, resilient livelihoods, and inclusive economic growth.
With sustained follow-up and financing, this dialogue’s outcomes will continue to shape Nigeria’s low-carbon, job-rich future.
