Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s energy strategy, warning against repeating past errors in the management of the country’s mineral resources. The governor made this call on Wednesday during the opening of the National Stakeholders’ Retreat and Board Meeting of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), held in Umuahia.
Themed “Impacts of Energy Transition on the Nigerian Economy,” the two-day retreat drew policymakers, industry leaders, and development partners to discuss Nigeria’s position in the evolving global energy landscape. Governor Otti, in his keynote address titled “Prosperity Through Transparency,” stressed the importance of adapting Nigeria’s extractive industry to emerging global trends.
“NEITI must pay close attention to the evolution of the new energy ecosystem and develop mechanisms that are pro-Nigeria in terms of reporting and industrial accountability,” Otti said. “We must not fall into the trap of past mistakes where lack of transparency and proper oversight led to lost revenues, underdevelopment, and environmental degradation.”
Highlighting the importance of transitioning to low and non-carbon energy sources, Otti noted that the extractive industry must not be caught unprepared for the global shift. “Stakeholders should align with the new energy order, not just to remain competitive, but also to establish frameworks that eliminate sharp practices and foster innovation,” he emphasized.
Governor Otti showcased Abia’s steps towards a sustainable energy future, citing the state’s deployment of thousands of solar-powered streetlights as a model for local governments. “This initiative has not only improved security and public safety but also reduced energy costs and enhanced service delivery,” he said.
Furthermore, he disclosed that the state has initiated partnerships with federal agencies to harness Abia’s vast natural resource deposits. As part of this plan, the government has launched APTAN Energy Limited—a public-private venture involving the Abia State Government, Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), and private investors.
In a bid to create a skilled workforce, Otti revealed that hundreds of young Abians are currently undergoing training in renewable energy infrastructure and technology management. “We are preparing our people for the future of energy,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chairman of the NEITI Stakeholders’ Working Group, Dr. George Akume, described the retreat as a strategic effort to align Nigeria’s extractive policy with global energy reforms. He praised Governor Otti’s leadership, noting that his administration’s commitment to good governance has made Abia a fitting host for the retreat.
“The federal government is determined to ensure that the energy transition is just, inclusive, and beneficial, especially to grassroots communities,” Akume said, commending NEITI’s progress in promoting transparency and reform in Nigeria’s extractive sector.
NEITI Executive Secretary and CEO, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, emphasized that the challenges of energy transition demand innovation and data-driven policies. He noted that NEITI had commissioned a detailed study on energy transition’s impact and is using the findings to guide policy development.
“This retreat should produce actionable strategies that enhance reporting and accountability frameworks across the industry,” Orji said, as he lauded the Abia State Government for hosting the event and supporting national transparency efforts.
Governor Otti was joined by key members of his cabinet and senior state officials at the retreat, reflecting the administration’s active involvement in shaping the future of Nigeria’s energy economy.