Energy Transition And Imperative for Safety Nets
By Kelvin Alohan
The January 31st and February 1st edition of Extractive360’s sponsored Just Energy Transition (JET) radio program, focused conversation on how communities in the Niger Delta region can avoid hardship that may be induced by the transition from fossil fuel to renewable energy sources.
The discussion became necessary following findings of the research, ‘Energy Transition in Nigeria’s Oil-rich Communities’, that communities whose livelihoods presently depend on fossil fuel extraction may be hard hit by the transition.
To help communities prepare for the expected green economy and avoid any job loss induced hardship, the topic Transition Induced job losses and Imperative for safety nets, was designed.
Kufre Emmanson John, Community Representative to Oando Oil and Savannah Energy, Akwa Ibom State and Tengi George-Ikoli, Senior Officer, Nigeria Program, NRGI, provided expert views on the topic on Redemption101.5 FM, Abak, Akwa Ibom State and Quest93.5 FM, Ughelli, Delta State respectively.
They emphasized on the need for government to provide safety nets to cushion the attendant effects, while also educating communities on possible opportunities in the green economy and what they need to do to better position themselves.
The resource persons also spoke about measures the country can begin to implement now with a view to avoid sinking into an economic meltdown following the transition.
The JET radio program is implemented in partnership with Spaces for Change (S4C) with support from Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP) under the auspices of the project ‘From Exclusion to Inclusion in National Just Transition Plans.’
Listen to the full conversation in the attached recordings.