NEITI outlines strategic roles for MDAs in driving Nigeria’s energy transition

The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has called on Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to clearly define and commit to their roles in steering Nigeria through the global shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

Speaking at a roundtable in Abuja on Tuesday on the Long-Term Impact of Energy Transition on Nigeria’s Economy, Orji Ogbonnaya, Executive Secretary, NEITI said the country’s ability to navigate the transition would depend on synergy and clarity of responsibilities across key government institutions.

“This global shift from fossil fuels to renewables is not optional for us, it is an inevitability that demands foresight, coordination, and deliberate action”, Orji said. “For a nation whose economy has long been tied to oil and gas, this transition is both a challenge and a unique opportunity.

Orji outlined strategic responsibilities for critical MDAs, Petroleum Ministry and NUPRC to align oil and gas operations with decarbonisation goals by enforcing emissions disclosure, flare reduction, renewable integration in new projects, and ensuring transparency in licensing.

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“NNPCL to transform from a traditional oil company into a diversified energy firm, investing in gas, renewables, carbon capture, and green hydrogen while forming partnerships with global clean energy investors.

“Ministry of Finance to reengineer Nigeria’s revenue framework for a post-oil reality through climate financing, green bonds, debt-for-climate swaps, and mobilising international climate funds”, he noted.

He also urged Ministry of Power to expand renewable energy adoption and improve grid infrastructure while promoting inclusive access to affordable electricity while urging Ministry of Environment to lead Nigeria’s climate diplomacy, safeguard host communities, track emissions, and secure fair access to global climate finance.

He urged the Solid Minerals Ministry to harness Nigeria’s lithium, cobalt, and nickel reserves sustainably, ensuring transparent licensing and domestic value addition to support green industrialisation.

Steve Ugbah, Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), represented by Federal Commissioner warned that the energy transition presents both risks and opportunities.

He recommended transition-sensitive revenue allocation, the creation of a decommissioning fund, and enhanced data transparency.

Similarly, the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), represented by Chris Nwaduka, pledged support to NEITI in ensuring prudent management of national resources during the transition.

From the private sector, Vincent Ogbu, Lead Sustainability Analyst at NNPCL, said the company is adopting a three-pronged strategy—prioritising gas as a transition fuel, expanding renewable investments, and ensuring locally grounded solutions.

The National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), represented by Jummai Vandu, emphasised that Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan is not just an environmental policy but a national development strategy requiring coordination across all sectors, including finance, agriculture, oil and gas, power, and transportation.