Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
On Thursday, the Vice Chancellor of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), Professor Bashiru Garba, emphasized that no nation can achieve meaningful development without access to sustainable energy.
Professor Garba made this assertion while delivering his inaugural lecture on Thursday at the university’s main auditorium. He highlighted that energy remains a critical pillar of industrialization, which in turn drives economic growth and sustainable development.
In the lecture titled “Chemistry, Energy, and Industrialization: The Tripod of Sustainable Development,” Professor Garba, a renowned scholar in Renewable Energy, stressed the vital intersection of these three domains as the foundation for a nation’s progress.
“The interplay between chemistry, energy, and industrialization is crucial for achieving sustainable development,” he stated, underscoring the urgent need for innovative approaches that align scientific progress with environmental responsibility.
“As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century,” he continued, “it is imperative that we prioritize solutions that promote economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection simultaneously.”
Professor Garba expressed concern that over two billion people, mostly in rural communities in developing countries like Nigeria, still lack access to modern and affordable energy services. According to him, this energy poverty perpetuates cycles of deprivation, poor health, and poverty.
He argued that neglecting these populations would be a grave error, not only on moral grounds but also politically and economically, as inclusive development is essential for national stability and prosperity.
Addressing Nigeria’s longstanding energy challenges, Professor Garba pointed out that every developed country has attained high levels of per capita energy consumption. He advised Nigerian states and regions to explore their unique energy potentials and attract investors to build region-specific energy generation and distribution systems.
“Each region should identify its locally available energy resources—be it solar, wind, biomass, or hydro—and develop tailored solutions to meet its needs,” he urged.
He also touched on the threats posed by vandalism and sabotage of energy infrastructure, describing them as major obstacles to energy development.
Professor Garba called for collective responsibility in safeguarding national assets critical to energy production and distribution.
The lecture was chaired by the university’s Pro-Chancellor, Professor Attahiru Jega, and drew a distinguished audience that included members of the University Governing Council, industry leaders, agricultural experts, academics, and administrative staff.
Professor Garba’s address concluded with a call to action for academia, government, and private stakeholders to work collaboratively toward a sustainable energy future that empowers all Nigerians.
