NILDS DG decries energy costs, calls for solution

The Director General, National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, NILDS, Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman has lamented the high cost of energy, which includes, electricity, transportation, petrol, aviation fuel diesel and cooking gas, stressing that there was need for comprehensive solution to deal with inherent challenges.

He said, there is an opportunity to solve the challenges, given the ongoing reforms in various sectors of the economy.

Speaking at the “Annual Legislative Conference organized by the Hallowmace Foundation African”, on Wednesday in Abuja. Prof. Sulaiman noted that the low power generation was for long became inadequate for the size of Nigeria’s population compared to some African countries.

Citing Algeria, Egypt and South Africa which enjoys steady power supply, the academic don called on the government to do more in the area of energy solution.

“The transport sector has recorded some gains in diversification, but the cost of fuel remains high,” Sulaiman said. He also highlighted safety concerns related to the introduction of compressed natural gas (CNG), despite its potential benefits.

He added that rising cooking gas prices have driven some households to revert to fuelwood, posing environmental and climate risks.

He underscored the importance of addressing these challenges at a time when the government’s bold reforms—such as the removal of electricity and fuel subsidies are expected to deliver long-term benefits.

“The task before us is to examine these issues from all angles and propose sustainable solutions that can be adopted by governments at all levels, as well as the private sector,” he said.

He emphasized that energy is central to economic growth and national development, making its affordability and availability a critical priority. Sulaiman called on experts from various fields to contribute actionable insights that would help the government achieve its goal of ending energy poverty.

In his opening address, the convener, Ambassador Anderson Osiebe called on critical stakeholders in the democratic fold to engage more for sustainable solution for national development. He said, the Hallowmace Foundation African provide a platform to address and propose sustainable solutions.

“We consider this a very unique platform where thought leaders, legislators, civil society, the media, influencers, stakeholders and concerned citizens converge to examine some of the issues that affect us most as a people.

He challenged Nigerian government to quickly adapt to the changing world on energy issues, transportation, and in environmental responsibility, adding that policies centred around energy, security, cost-effective transportation and environmental stewardship must be at the forefront of Nigeria’s legislative agenda.

This year’s theme is titled: “Legislative Pathways to a Sustainable Future: Enhancing Energy Security, Reducing Transportation Cost, Lowering Carbon Emissions through CNG Policy.”