Introduction

The 4th Edition of the CODAF School of Governance was successfully held virtually from August 25th to August 27th, 2025. The three-day event convened experts, youth leaders, and participants to explore the critical intersections of renewable energy governance, climate change, and social justice. The program featured keynote addresses, expert presentations, and interactive Q&A sessions, fostering a rich dialogue on building a sustainable and equitable energy future for Nigeria and Africa.

Day One Proceedings (August 25^th, 2025)

The event commenced with a Welcome Address by Mr. Benin Richard, Executive Director of CODAF, who set the stage by emphasizing the importance of effective governance in the renewable energy sector. This was followed by an Introduction to the School of Governance and a formal Introduction of Facilitators by Mr. Endurance Oriakhogba, Project Officer at CODAF.

The first virtual session, "Foundations of Renewable Energy Governance," was delivered by Miss Safiatou Nana, the Executed director, AFRICED, Burkina Faso. She provided a robust framework for understanding the policies and institutions essential for steering the energy transition. During her discourse, she highlighted 4 pillars of renewable energy governance including; legal and policy framework, institutions and coordination, financing and investing, as well as participation and inclusion.

The discourse then deepened with "Climate Change, Energy, and Social Justice," a presentation by Mr. Fred Nohwo, Executive Director of ACERD. He highlighted the disproportionate impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities and the imperative for a just transition that leaves no one behind. The day concluded with a vibrant Q/A Session that engaged all speakers.

Day Two Proceedings (August 26^th, 2025)

Day two began with a recap and an Introduction of Speakers by Mr. Endurance Oriakhogba. The focus then shifted to the practical aspects of renewable energy, starting with an "Introduction to Renewable Energy" by Mrs. Caroline Ubrei-Joe, Sustainability Coordinator at City, St George's University of London, who detailed various renewable technologies and their potential.

This was followed by a focused session on "Solar Energy in Nigeria," presented by Miss Melody Ifechukwu Enyinnaya, Program Manager at CODAF. She provided a nuanced analysis of the opportunities, challenges, and current landscape of solar adoption in the country. The session ended with an interactive Q/A Session with the speakers.

Day Three Proceedings (August 27^th, 2025)

The final day was introduced by Mr. Endurance Oriakhogba. The first session on "Participatory Governance and Social Accountability" was presented by Mr. Benin Richard. He underscored the critical role of citizen engagement and transparent institutions in ensuring accountable energy governance. He added “We can’t keep shouting in the city to put an end to a village fire, while the voices of the villagers’ voices are not been heard” stating that voice of Africa must be the bedrock of a Just energy transition.

Following a Q/A Session, participants engaged in a Breakout Session, allowing for deeper discussion and networking. The event concluded with a powerful Closing Remark on the "Role of Youth in Shaping Renewable Energy Policies and Driving Just Transitions," delivered by Mr. Godfrey Ogbemudia, Program Manager for Energy and Circular Economy at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS. He charged the youth with being proactive advocates and innovators in the Renewable energy space.

Conclusion

The 4th School of Governance was a resounding success, achieving its objective of building capacity and stimulating critical conversation among a new generation of leaders. The event provided a unique platform for knowledge exchange and equipped participants with a deeper understanding of the governance structures needed to drive a sustainable and socially just energy transition in Nigeria.