Title: Promoting the use of clean energy to combat climate change in the Niger Delta
Introduction :
Climate change is a global issue that requires concerted action at all levels. The Director-General of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to promoting the use of clean energy as a solution to the global challenge of climate change. Following his participation at the COP28 Climate Change Conference in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Dr. Ogbuku stressed the need to find a permanent solution to the environmental problems facing the Niger Delta due to oil exploitation.
The consequences of climate change in the Niger Delta:
The NDDC director highlighted the negative impact of climate change on the people of Nigeria’s oil basin, including forced migrations of many communities due to pollution, flooding and environmental degradation. According to him, the Niger Delta region is the most affected in Nigeria by problems linked to climate change. Oil exploration and gas flaring have led to severe erosion of our environment and the desertion of many communities due to urban migration.
NDDC’s commitment to clean energy:
The NDDC’s participation in the climate change conference served to highlight the commission’s position on the issue of climate change and seek partnerships and investments in renewable energy. The NDDC director noted that the commission was investing in solar energy to light communities in the Niger Delta region and was looking at recouping carbon credits from these investments.
Future prospects :
The NDDC director also mentioned the commission’s plans for the year 2024 and beyond. These plans include a massive tree planting campaign and training young people in renewable energy to prepare them for the future. The NDDC also plans to train 1,000 youths in the Niger Delta region on the conversion of gasoline engines to condensed natural gas (CNG) engines. This initiative will create jobs for young people while promoting the transition to green energy.
Conclusion :
The NDDC is determined to address the challenges posed by climate change in the Niger Delta and promote the use of clean energy as a sustainable solution. By engaging in solar energy projects, tree planting and youth training, the commission contributes to the global fight against climate change and the preservation of the Niger Delta environment.. It is essential that governments, international organizations and trading partners also commit to this path in order to preserve our planet for future generations.