Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo says the establishment of Africa’s first Barefoot Renewable Energy College in Osara marks another milestone in the state’s drive to become a leading destination for investment, industrialization and innovation.
The governor stated in his remarks at the commissioning of the renewable energy vocational institution and the Green Hydrogen Research and Demonstration Pilot Plant by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Governor Ododo said the project aligns with his administration’s development agenda, highlighting ongoing strategic investments at the Ajaokuta Steel Company, the Ajaokuta Free Trade Zone, critical infrastructure and the state’s solid minerals sector.
He described education as the foundation of sustainable development, noting that the institution will equip Nigerians with practical skills in renewable energy while creating opportunities for innovation, employment and economic growth.
The governor noted that the college complements other major projects attracted to Kogi State, including the ₦9 billion Livestock Resilience Centre and a World Bank-supported veterinary clinic at the Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara among others.
The Barefoot Renewable Energy College, established by the Energy Commission of Nigeria is expected to serve as a centre for renewable energy training, research and technical skills development for Nigeria and the African continent.
