25/03/2024 (Daily Post), Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by his Special Adviser on Economic Affairs, Tope Fasua has described Cross River State as the economic harbinger of Nigeria going by the arrays of energy potentials she is endowed with.

He made the comment when he spoke at the Energy Cross River Expo 2024 organized by the state government, titled Energy Cross River with the theme Redefining the energy architecture of Cross River using sustainable fuels.

He said the federal government is happy with the upcoming biodiesel plant to be established in the state and will extend the required support.

“Alternative energy sources will definitely help Nigeria’s economic growth. We’re delighted over the upcoming biodiesel plant in the state and will definitely give our backing

“There are billions of cubic reserves of untapped energy and hydrocarbons in the country. We need to tap into them for our energy solutions.”

Declaring the event open, Governor Bassey Otu of the State confirmed that they are in partnership with the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, to establish the first and biggest biodiesel plant in Akamkpa LGA of the state.

He said, “We’re in partnership with the NNPC to establish the biggest bioenergy plant in the state.

“We’re fully ready, prepared. We have sorted out all issues as well as technical details surrounding the establishment of the plant with the NNPC.

Otu said energy is among the first-line enablers of industrialization and, hence a catalyst for national economic growth and development.

The governor said Cross River State is poised to be a major player in the renewable energy drive.

“However, while we are pursuing the fossil-renewable switch as a gradual transition, we also need to expand the fossil-based energy resources to ensure availability and affordability; especially in our rural areas.

He said Nigeria is undoubtedly blessed with both fossil and renewable energy resources with the potential to provide sufficient and efficient energy needs of the country if properly harnessed.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of NNPC, Mele Kyari said they were happy with the partnership to establish the biodiesel plant and will do more to support the state.

Represented by Dr Salihu Jumel, he said Cross River has huge energy potential and has turned it into an advantage.

https://dailypost.ng/2024/03/25/nigerian-govt-happy-with-1st-biodiesel-plant-in-calabar-vp-shettima/