In a collaborative effort aimed at addressing gender disparities in Nigeria’s energy sector and promoting clean energy solutions, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and Power Africa unveiled the “Growing Green Jobs for Women in Nigeria” initiative on September 26. This groundbreaking program seeks to empower approximately 500 women and youth by equipping them with the skills and opportunities needed to secure employment in Nigeria’s rapidly growing energy industry.
Historically, women have been underrepresented in energy-related professions in Nigeria, with limited access to leadership roles or decision-making positions. Recent data from the 2022 Powering Jobs Census paints a stark picture, revealing a significant gender gap in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) roles (8 percent) compared to non-STEM positions (64 percent) in the Nigerian workforce.
In response to these disparities and in alignment with Nigeria’s sustainability goals, Power Africa introduced the “Growing Green Jobs for Women in Nigeria” initiative. This comprehensive program provides women and youth across Nigeria with access to a wide range of blended learning opportunities and resources essential for success in the competitive energy sector. These resources include professional and technical skills training in areas such as solar installation, project management, and communication skills. Additionally, the initiative offers employability clinics, job fairs, job shadowing experiences, and mentorship programs.
Susan Oranye, USAID/Nigeria’s Economic Program Management Specialist, emphasized the significance of this initiative in the context of Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan. She highlighted Nigeria’s goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 while simultaneously lifting 100 million Nigerians out of energy poverty by significantly expanding clean energy generation. This ambitious transition is expected to create 420,000 jobs within the power sector by 2060, presenting women with substantial opportunities to play pivotal roles in Nigeria’s traditionally male-dominated power industry.
The “Growing Green Jobs for Women” initiative in Nigeria represents a transformative endeavor, placing women and marginalized groups at the forefront of the country’s clean energy transition. By enhancing access to financial resources and dismantling gender-related barriers, the initiative strives to cultivate a culture of gender inclusivity within the energy sector. Moreover, it aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to transition away from fossil fuels, contributing to global efforts to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change.