Governor Otti Calls for Overhaul of Nigeria’s Energy Strategy at NEITI Retreat

At a pivotal National Stakeholders’ Retreat in Umuahia, Abia State Governor Alex Otti urged extractive industry players to align with the shifting energy paradigm shaped by global transitions.

Opening the two-day NEITI board meeting themed “Impacts of Energy Transition on Nigeria Economy,” Otti emphasized the necessity of learning from previous mistakes to build a transparent and accountable resource sector.

In his speech, “Prosperity Through Transparency,” the governor highlighted the need for NEITI to develop reporting systems that prioritize Nigeria’s interests and industrial accountability. “Stakeholders are encouraged to pay attention to the unfolding dynamics of the old and new energy order,” he said, advocating for frameworks that optimize operations and eliminate corruption.

Governor Otti cited Abia’s strides in adopting renewable energy, including the deployment of solar streetlights that have bolstered public safety and cut energy expenses. He also outlined a strategic partnership with federal agencies to harness the state’s mineral wealth, supported by a new investment company, APTAN Energy Limited, which includes government and private sector collaboration.

He praised NEITI’s transformative role in revenue transparency and expressed confidence that the retreat’s resolutions would reinforce Nigeria’s extractive sector governance. Dr. George Akume, SGF and NEITI chairman, described the event as a critical forum to reflect on reforms amid the global shift to cleaner energy sources, affirming the federal government’s commitment to an equitable energy transition.

Akume lauded Governor Otti’s developmental agenda and the conducive environment created in Abia for hosting the retreat. NEITI’s CEO, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, noted the importance of innovation in energy transition and the progress of a commissioned study to guide policy.

The governor was supported by a delegation of officials during the retreat in Umuahia.