In a significant collaboration, USAID’s Power Africa Nigeria Power Sector Programme has joined forces with the Lagos State Government to launch a three-week training initiative on clean energy solutions.
This program, set to benefit 500 women nationwide, kicked off with the training of the initial 30 participants.
Held at the Lagos State Electricity Board in Ikeja, the training is a crucial component of Power Africa’s Growing Green Jobs for Women in Nigeria program.
The focus is on providing hands-on expertise in solar installation and maintenance, coupled with the opportunity to attain certification from the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).
Engr. Shola Shasore, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, highlighted the alignment of Power Africa’s skills training with the state government’s commitment to gender equality and women’s economic empowerment. With women currently occupying only 8% of energy sector jobs in Nigeria, initiatives like these are vital for a more inclusive and sustainable future, she emphasized.
The Chief of Party of Power Africa Nigeria Power Sector Programme, Mr. Tunde Gbajumo, expressed gratitude to the Lagos State government for their support, emphasizing that closing the gender gap in energy sector jobs and leadership is pivotal for Nigeria’s transition to sustainable power.
Mr. Demilola Lateef Shitta, Head of Administration and Human Resources of the Lagos State Electricity Board, applauded the dedication of the participants and underscored the need for more initiatives empowering women in solar and renewable energy.
This collaboration reflects USAID Power Africa’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and sustainability in the energy sector.
As more women gain expertise in clean energy, Nigeria is poised to take a leading role in the global energy transition, simultaneously creating new economic opportunities for its citizens.