The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) and the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, is making significant strides in the construction of Africa’s first Barefoot Renewable Energy College in Osara, Kogi State. Under the visionary leadership of the Director-General of the Energy Commission, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, CEng MIMechE, the project is rapidly transitioning from concept to reality, with impressive physical milestones, including the perimeter fence, access roads, car park, administrative block, and recreational centre, all nearing completion.
Once fully operational, the Barefoot Renewable Energy College will be a revolutionary institution that equips Nigerians, both literate and illiterate, with hands-on skills in solar installation, maintenance, mini-grid systems, and other clean energy solutions. The initiative aligns directly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu‘s Renewed Hope Agenda, driving sustainable energy development, reducing unemployment, and promoting community self-reliance through renewable energy empowerment.
Widely regarded as the “DG of DGs” and celebrated as a “talk-and-do” leader, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi’s commitment to tangible impact is clearly reflected not only in this flagship project but also in his impressive record of youth empowerment programmes, technical capacity-building initiatives, and far-reaching community development efforts.
Hon Victor Okebunmi,
Senior Special Assistant (Publicity),
Renewed Hope Global.
12.11.25
