New Energy Order (NEITI): Gov. Otti Vows Bold Partnership With FG-Here's Why It Matters

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has issued a bold and urgent call to the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) and key industry stakeholders to fully embrace the changing dynamics of the global energy transition-warning that failure to do so could plunge Nigeria into another cycle of economic errors.

Governor Otti made the declaration while declaring open the two-day National Stakeholders' Retreat and Board Meeting of NEITI in Umuahia, themed "Impacts of Energy Transition on Nigeria's Economy.ÔÇØ Delivering a thought-provoking keynote titled "Prosperity Through Transparency,ÔÇØ the Governor demanded a paradigm shift in how Nigeria manages its extractive industries in light of the ongoing global transition to low-carbon and renewable energy sources.

He warned that without a strategic rethinking, Nigeria risks repeating the "costly mistakes of the past.ÔÇØ

"NEITI must now develop systems that are pro-Nigeria in terms of reporting and industrial accountability,ÔÇØ Otti said. "We must pay attention to the unfolding dynamics of the old and new energy ecosystem to enable smarter operations and eliminate sharp practices.ÔÇØ

The Governor emphasized that the country's future prosperity lies in fully exploiting the opportunities embedded in the transition from carbon-heavy to renewable energy sources. He stressed the need for energy policies that reflect modern realities and serve both economic and environmental interests.

Governor Otti used the opportunity to showcase his administration's energy reforms and readiness to lead from the front. He revealed that Abia State had already begun transitioning by deploying thousands of solar-powered streetlights across the state-a move he says has drastically reduced energy costs, enhanced public safety, and increased government efficiency.

"We now have clearer insights into evolving a holistic energy policy for our state,ÔÇØ he added.

In a move that signals deeper involvement in Nigeria's future energy market, Governor Otti disclosed that his government had launched APTAN Energy Limited, an investment vehicle in partnership with the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) and private investors. This venture, he said, would drive the development and monetization of Abia's abundant natural resources.

Moreover, the Governor announced that hundreds of Abia youths are currently undergoing training to manage and install renewable energy infrastructure-part of a broader push to make the state a hub for clean energy innovation.

"We are preparing our people and our institutions to align with this new energy future,ÔÇØ Otti said.

He also pledged his commitment to collaborating closely with the Federal Government to ensure that the dividends of democracy are felt across all sectors and regions.

"Abia State is ready and willing to partner with the federal government to deliver on a transparent, inclusive energy agenda,ÔÇØ he assured.

In return, Secretary to the Government of the Federation and NEITI Board Chairman, Sen. Dr. George Akume, commended Governor Otti for hosting the strategic retreat and acknowledged the reformist energy the Governor is injecting into governance.

"Governor Otti's transformative development agenda and people-first approach is highly commendable,ÔÇØ Akume stated. "The federal government recognizes the progress his administration has made in rebuilding infrastructure, improving services, and enhancing security.ÔÇØ

Akume added that the FG is working to ensure Nigeria's energy transition is "just, inclusive, and beneficial to all Nigerians-especially those at the grassroots.ÔÇØ

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary and CEO of NEITI, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, echoed the Governor's concerns and noted that NEITI had already commissioned an extensive study on the impacts of the energy transition. He called on participants to engage fully in the retreat's open debates and promised that the retreat would yield actionable recommendations.

Dr. Orji thanked the Governor for not only hosting the event but also leading by example in the area of energy innovation and transparency.

Governor Otti was accompanied by top officials of the Abia State Government, signaling strong institutional support for his new energy push.

As the country grapples with an uncertain global energy market, Otti's intervention is being seen as a wake-up call-one that may force NEITI and policymakers to refocus on building a transparent, accountable, and forward-looking extractive industry.