In the ever-evolving landscape of Nigeria’s energy sector, a remarkable shift is taking place – one that seeks to bridge the longstanding gender gap and unleash the untapped potential of women. This transformative change is spearheaded by a pioneering collaboration between the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and Power Africa, aptly titled “Growing Green Jobs for Women in Nigeria.”

Historically, the energy industry in Nigeria has been predominantly male-dominated, with women often relegated to non-STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) roles. The Powering Jobs Census 2022 painted a stark picture, revealing that a mere 8% of women occupied positions in STEM fields, while a staggering 64% took on non-STEM roles. This glaring disparity raises critical questions about the unrealized talent and contributions that half of Nigeria’s workforce could bring to the table.

But the tides are turning, as this new initiative aims to challenge the status quo and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in Nigeria’s energy landscape.

Unveiling the Initiative: A New Dawn for Gender Equality

On September 26th, 2023, USAID and Power Africa officially launched their ambitious “Growing Green Jobs for Women in Nigeria” initiative, ushering in a new era of progress and opportunity. The primary objective of this groundbreaking program is to champion gender equality and advocate for the adoption of cleaner energy solutions, aligning with Nigeria’s broader sustainability goals.

Through this initiative, approximately 500 women and youth will be granted access to a comprehensive suite of resources, including professional training, employability clinics, job fairs, job shadowing opportunities, and mentorship programs – all designed to empower them and enhance their prospects in the energy sector.

“This initiative is a game-changer for Nigeria’s energy industry,” says Susan Oranye, USAID/Nigeria’s Economic Program Management Specialist. “By providing women and youth with the necessary skills, tools, and exposure, we aim to bridge the gender gap and unleash their full potential in shaping the future of Nigeria’s energy landscape.”

Bridging the Gender Gap: A Multifaceted Approach

The “Growing Green Jobs for Women in Nigeria” initiative encompasses a multifaceted approach to address the longstanding gender imbalance in the energy sector. Let’s delve deeper into the key components of this transformative program:

1. Professional Training:
At the heart of the initiative lies a comprehensive training program designed to equip women and youth with the essential skills required to thrive in the energy sector. Participants will receive specialized instruction in areas such as solar installation, project management, and effective communication – empowering them with the technical and soft skills needed to excel in their chosen fields.

2. Employability Clinics:
The initiative also includes a series of employability clinics, providing participants with a platform to refine and showcase their skillsets. These clinics will offer guidance on resume building, interview preparation, and personal branding, ensuring that the women and youth are well-equipped to navigate the job market and stand out to prospective employers.

3. Job Fairs:
To connect the talented pool of participants with relevant job opportunities, the initiative will host a series of specialized job fairs. These events will serve as a bridge between the skilled individuals and the energy companies actively seeking to diversify their workforce, fostering meaningful connections and opening doors to promising career paths.

4. Job Shadowing:
Recognizing the value of hands-on experience, the initiative will provide job shadowing opportunities, allowing participants to gain firsthand insight into the inner workings of the energy industry. By observing seasoned professionals in their day-to-day roles, the women and youth will gain a deeper understanding of the energy sector and its various career possibilities.

5. Mentorship Programs:
The initiative also recognizes the transformative power of mentorship. Through tailored mentorship programs, participants will have the opportunity to connect with experienced industry experts who will guide them through the complexities of the energy sector, share valuable insights, and provide the necessary support for their professional growth and development.

Aligning with Nigeria’s Sustainable Goals

The “Growing Green Jobs for Women in Nigeria” initiative not only addresses the gender gap but also aligns seamlessly with Nigeria’s broader sustainability objectives. Susan Oranye, USAID/Nigeria’s Economic Program Management Specialist, emphasizes this crucial connection:

“Through the Energy Transition Plan, Nigeria aims for net-zero emissions by 2060. This transition could spawn 420,000 jobs in the power sector by 2060. This initiative is a strategic step towards ensuring that women and youth are actively involved in shaping the future of Nigeria’s energy landscape and contributing to the country’s sustainability goals.”

By promoting gender inclusivity and advocating for cleaner energy solutions, the initiative underscores Nigeria’s commitment to combating climate change and its detrimental effects. As the nation strives to transition from fossil fuels, the influx of skilled women and youth in the energy sector will play a pivotal role in driving this transformation and creating a more sustainable future.

The Larger Picture: A Global Perspective

While the “Growing Green Jobs for Women in Nigeria” initiative shines a spotlight on the country’s efforts to bridge the gender gap in the energy sector, it is worthwhile to consider the broader global landscape and the trends that are shaping the energy industry worldwide.

A Glimpse into the FTSE 100 Scenario:
In the United Kingdom, the FTSE 100 index, which represents the performance of the 100 largest publicly traded companies, has recently observed a modest rise. This upward movement is largely attributed to the surge in oil and mining stocks, as the global demand for energy resources remains high.

Giles Coghlan, a renowned market analyst, notes an anticipation of rate hikes, which has contributed to the yield movement on British government bonds. This, in turn, has implications for the broader financial landscape.

Marija Veitmane, the head of equity research at State Street Global Markets, highlights that the scarcity of oil supplies is expected to bolster oil prices, ultimately benefiting the UK stocks in the oil and gas sector.

However, the homebuilding sector has witnessed a decline, with Barratt Developments experiencing a drop due to ex-dividend trading. Similarly, the midcap FTSE 250 index has also observed a notable decrease.

In the broader context, the UK is easing banking and insurance regulations, aiming to reinvigorate its financial sector in the aftermath of the country’s departure from the European Union.

These global trends and developments underscore the dynamic nature of the energy landscape and the interplay between various economic factors. As nations like Nigeria push for gender equality and sustainability in the energy sector, the world is in a state of flux, with each country navigating its own unique challenges and opportunities.

The Path Forward: Embracing Change and Empowering Women

The “Growing Green Jobs for Women in Nigeria” initiative serves as a powerful testament to the transformative potential that lies in challenging the status quo and empowering women to play a more prominent role in the energy sector. As Nigeria moves towards its ambitious sustainability goals, this program represents a strategic and inclusive approach that can have far-reaching implications.

By providing women and youth with the necessary skills, resources, and opportunities, the initiative not only bridges the gender gap but also taps into the vast, untapped potential of half of Nigeria’s workforce. This not only contributes to a more equitable and diverse energy industry but also holds the promise of accelerating Nigeria’s transition towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.

As the world watches and learns from Nigeria’s groundbreaking efforts, the “Growing Green Jobs for Women in Nigeria” initiative serves as a powerful model for other nations to follow. It is a testament to the transformative power of collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to gender equality and sustainability.

In the ever-evolving global landscape, initiatives like this serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us that when we challenge the traditional boundaries and empower the underrepresented, we unlock a world of endless possibilities – a world where the future of energy is not just sustainable, but also inclusive and equitable for all.