The House of Representatives Committee on Renewable Energy is set to introduce a landmark bill that would mandate the creation of green jobs nationwide, with clear targets for the inclusion of women and youth in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector.
Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Afam Ogene, made this known on Wednesday during the Africa Policy Dialogue (APD) Kick-off Workshop on Green Jobs and Low Carbon Transition, held at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.
The proposed legislation, titled the National Inclusive Green Jobs Act (NIGJA), will provide a framework that links renewable energy investments to employment generation, skills development, and inclusive participation.
Describing the bill as a cornerstone of the Committee’s agenda, Ogene said it represents a practical step towards transforming Nigeria’s energy transition into a tool for economic empowerment and social development.
He emphasized that climate policy should not only focus on environmental preservation but also promote social justice and job creation, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
“For Nigeria to achieve meaningful and sustainable development, prioritising the interests of women and youth is crucial,” Ogene stated.
If passed, the NIGJA is expected to accelerate Nigeria’s transition to a low-carbon economy while ensuring that the most vulnerable populations benefit from emerging opportunities in the green energy sector.