Afe Babalola University in Ado Ekiti hosted the second International Green Hydrogen Summit on Sunday, where Vice-Chancellor Prof. Smaranda Olarinde called for tighter links between the state, academic institutions, and industry. Punch reported that Olarinde argued translating lab findings into usable clean energy requires continuous funding for research, sound policy, and workforce development. She asked attendees to secure durable alliances that would help Nigeria meet its energy goals.
Joshua Dauda, head of the Netherlands-based CrossAfrique Hydrogen, echoed the call for cooperation. According to Punch, Dauda revealed the firm is partnering with industrial groups and the German aid agency GIZ to create a Green Energy Hub on campus. This facility will feature a solar array for campus power and a dedicated hydrogen lab for testing and study. Dauda described the project as a unique Nigerian initiative intended to train staff in hydrogen tech and adapt global knowledge to local needs.
Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, head of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, addressed the audience on the country’s clean energy path. Punch noted that Abdullahi, represented by Bolaji Sulu-Ibrahim, said the federal government aims for a solar-and-storage-led grid by 2060. He explained that green hydrogen would serve as reserve power and cut emissions in heavy manufacturing. The commission noted high solar output in northern states like Sokoto and Kebbi, where daily radiation reaches up to seven kilowatt-hours per square metre.
Abdullahi pointed out that Nigeria’s renewable capacity was roughly 2,638 megawatts in 2024, despite large hydro, wind, and biomass reserves. He listed reliance on imported components, weak grid infrastructure, and funding gaps as key hurdles. The commission is rolling out solar projects for public health and education sites, while six regional research centers aim to boost innovation. Abdullahi urged schools to join pilot studies and asked manufacturers to fund technologies that lower emissions in cement, steel, and fertilizer production.