At the Niger Delta Oil & Gas Investment and Security Summit in Calabar, stakeholders emphasised the need for a shift in Nigeria’s energy strategy, with calls for stronger investment in renewable energy and improved engagement with host communities.

Delivering the keynote lecture, “The Global Energy Transition and Nigeria’s Energy Security,” Eur Ing (Amb.) Dr. Chinedu Ogwus said the Federal Government must create incentives to attract investment into solar and battery manufacturing. He recommended a five-year tax relief for renewable energy firms, stressing that sustainable peace in oil-producing areas could only be achieved through dialogue.

“Government must encourage investment and support individuals to build solar factories,” Ogwus stated. “This measure would assist the nation in leading Africa’s energy transition by 2060.”

The summit, themed “Constructive Engagement for the Protection of Oil & Gas Assets and Supporting Institutions to Drive Implementation of Extant Laws to Deepen Local Content Realisation,” brought together policymakers, legislators, and community leaders. Discussions focused on insecurity, underdevelopment, and the role of local participation in the region’s oil and gas industry.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Senator Benson Agadaga, noted that implementing existing laws required practical collaboration between government and communities.

“It is through platforms like this summit that ideas are shared to help develop our communities and advance our environment. The laws exist, but it is up to us to bring them to life,” he said.

He further urged stakeholders to explore joint ventures in the sector.

“There is nothing wrong if two or three individuals or organisations come together to establish their own company and invest in the region’s oil and gas sector,” Akpabio added.

Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu, who hosted the event alongside his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Agbe Odey, welcomed participants, including the Minister of State for Petroleum, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, and the Minister of Environment. Lawmakers such as Senator Ned Nwoko, Senator Eteng Williams, and Rt. Hon. Obongemgem Ekparikpe also took part in panel sessions.

The summit concluded with a call for collaborative investments, local content implementation, and renewable energy adoption to secure Nigeria’s future in a changing global energy landscape.