The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) are under scrutiny on social media after jointly announcing the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Sunday.
Pictures shared on various platforms depict Ahmad Salihjo, CEO of REA, and Khalil Halilu, CEO of NASENI, signing the MoU during the ongoing Conference of Parties (COP28) in the UAE.
The agencies have come under fire from some social media users, who are questioning the timing and circumstances surrounding the MoU signing, especially considering the international climate conference setting of COP28. Critics are expressing concerns about the appropriateness of such an agreement during a crucial global event focused on addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices.
Despite the backlash, the agencies have outlined the objectives of the MoU, which include collaboration towards electrifying rural and underserved areas in Nigeria, sharing knowledge, data, and information related to rural electrification, and promoting the use of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and biomass in rural electrification.
While the agencies assert the positive intentions and goals of the MoU, the public discussion on social media reflects a growing demand for transparency, accountability, and a clearer understanding of the alignment between government actions and global initiatives dedicated to environmental sustainability.
The debate underscores the increasing awareness and engagement of the public in matters related to climate change and renewable energy.
Below are some of such comments As monitored by Daily Trust:
@OkeStalyf said: “You people must be m&d because what’s this nonsense? How do two agencies with HQ in Abuja go to Dubai to sign contract?”
@gabriel_bolatit wrote: “Confused 😕😕set of people this to show they are working or what do they want to achieve with this charade? You guys are based in Abuja but Dubai is the place for MOU.”
@McShaffy: “Different clothes, same folks! Imagine wasting time, energy and the resources that are not there. I still don’t know how you think. Till date you have not given a definitive plan for NASENI. Like by 2024 we would be selling our own bread.”
@zharadenmaiyaki: “the art of wasting money in Nigeria by Nigerians have to be studied. youth older men there’s no difference everyone’s just extravagant.”
@EagleRye: “Lol. 2 Nigerians agencies go all the way to dubai to “sign contract”. And not even a serious contract o, something as vague as the nonsense in the objectives. Only explanation is SCAM! Its a pipeline. Useless @officialEFCC take note.”
@efa23101: “Two agencies with HQ in Abuja went abroad to sign an MoU? Am I missing something or missing out on something?”
@ChuksBrunoOk: “And you had to go to Dubai to do the signing. When you lots have depleted the commonwealth of the nation I believe you will be satisfied then until then keep at it.”
