“We cannot talk about sustainability without addressing gender equality and energy access”

Oredola Adeola

Chief (Mrs.) Anita Nana Okuribido, President of the Women in Renewable Energy Association (WIRE-A), has described energy poverty as a pressing challenge that disproportionately affects women in Nigeria and across Africa.

She made this known in her remark at the Nigeria Environment Outlook 2025, organised by Environment Africa Magazine, held at the weekend, at the VCP Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

According to the Founder/Chairman of the Smiling Simon Greenbuild Foundation, energy poverty remains “a terrible reality” that has “the face of a woman,”.

She emphasised that women bear the brunt of inadequate energy access as they rely heavily on energy for cooking, household needs, and small-scale enterprises.

“Energy poverty is a terrible reality, and I always say it has the face of a woman,” Okuribido stated.

“Women use energy the most, for cooking, for running small and medium enterprises, and for everything that makes life comfortable.

“When there is energy poverty, it is women who feel it first and suffer it most.”

She further stated that addressing energy poverty and climate change must be intentional and inclusive, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 5 (Gender Equality), Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), Goal 8 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), Goal 13 (Climate Action), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Dr. Okuribido said, “We cannot talk about sustainability without addressing gender equality and energy access.

“These SDGs connect to shape a greener, more innovative present and a sustainable, resilient future. We have to be deliberate about mitigating climate change.”

Okuribido also called for stronger collaboration among the government, women, and scientists in promoting environmental protection and renewable energy adoption.

“Let us continue to amplify the voices of women, scientists, and innovators,” she urged.

“Let us speak with one voice, work with government, and take a clear position that our environment must be protected, even if it begins with simple acts like planting a tree.”

The initiator of the One Nigerian Child One Solar Lamp said, “Together, we can shape not only a greener present but also a more sustainable and resilient future – one illuminated by innovation, inclusivity, and shared prosperity.”