By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Emir of Dutse, Alhaji Muhammad Hamim Nuhu Sanusi, has called on the federal government to take urgent steps in resolving all legal and financial issues hindering the Mambila Hydro-Power station.
The Emir made the call at a public lecture marking the 3rd Anniversary of NatureNews and presentation of the Hero of Environmental Actions for Development (HEAD) awards in Abuja on Tuesday.
Emir Sanusi, who was represented by the Barden Dutse and former Managing Director of National Electricity Power Authority (NEPA), Engr. Hamza Ibrahim said hydro-power will play an important role in Nigeria’s transition to green energy.
He said Nigeria’s current transmitted power is about 5,000 MW, adding that the country needs 40,000 MW for her industrial and commercial requirements.
Emir Sanusi, who is also chairman of NatureNews Advisory Board, disclosed that the Mambila Hydro-power project will add 3,000 mega watts to the National Grid.
He noted that the topic of the lecture, “Climate Change and Energy Transition in Nigeria”, is in line with current realities given the rise in global temperatures and decarbonisation.
He said the rise in global temperatures and decarbonisation are topical issues of the moment and that renewables have important roles in the mitigation of climate change.
“New advances have given rise to massive energy production by solar and wind. The erraticity of wind is of concern, but battery shortage can resolve some of the technical and operational issues when connected to the grid,” he stated.
The Emir lauded the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of NatureNews newspaper, Alhaji Aliu Akoshile, on the role the paper is playing in raising awareness and proffering climate change solutions.
He said NatureNews serves as a catalyst for change, amplifying the continents’ unique perspective on climate change solutions.
He said the newspaper has not only earned national acclaim but has also secured its place in the international arena.
Emir Sanusi said the recognition bestowed upon NatureNews is a testament to its unwavering commitment to promoting a sustainable earth.
