The Lagos State Government, in collaboration with USAID’s Power Africa Nigeria Power Sector Programme, has launched a three-week training programme on clean energy solutions for the first 30 women out of a total of 500 women that would be selected across the country.
While speaking at the opening ceremony of the training held at the Lagos State Electricity Board in Ikeja, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. Shola Shasore said the training is aimed at increasing women’s participation and leadership in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector.
She explained that the programme is part of Power Africa’s Growing Green Jobs for Women in Nigeria programme. It will equip participants with hands-on expertise in solar installation and maintenance while certifying them through the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).
Shasore said the Power Africa’s skills training programme aligns with the State Government’s commitment to promoting gender equality and women’s economic empowerment. She noted that empowering women to compete in the renewable energy job market supports the administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus development agenda.
“With women currently holding just 8% of energy sector jobs in Nigeria, programmes creating opportunities for women in technical roles are essential for an inclusive and sustainable future,” Shasore emphasized.
The Permanent Secretary further urged the trainees to utilise the knowledge from the programme to create positive change in their communities and encourage more women to pursue technical careers.
The Chief of Party of Power Africa Nigeria Power Sector Programme, Mr. Tunde Gbajumo appreciated the Lagos State government for supporting the initiative. “Closing the gender gap in energy sector jobs and leadership will accelerate Nigeria’s transition to sustainable power”, Gbajumo added.
The Head of Administrative and Human Resources of the Lagos State Electricity Board, Mr. Shitta Damilola Lateef, while acknowledging the participants’ dedication and commitment to the programme, emphasised the need for more initiatives that empower women in solar and renewable energy.
He said, “With this collaboration with the Lagos State Government on skills training programme, and many more across Nigeria, USAID Power Africa demonstrates its commitment to engendering the energy sector and ensuring its inclusivity and sustainability.
“As more women develop expertise in clean energy, Nigeria can position itself at the forefront of the global energy transition while creating new economic opportunities for its citizens.”
