The Rural Electrification Agency’s Nigeria Electrification Programme (REA-NEP) reaffirmed its support for youth engagement in the renewable energy sector at the 2025 edition of the Youth Energy STEAM Festival (YES-FEST), held at Government Science Secondary School, Maitama - Abuja, under the theme “Fueling Future Energies Through STEAM Education.” The event brought together students, educators, and energy professionals to promote innovation, sustainability.

Representing the Head of the Nigeria Electrification Programme, Mr. Olufemi Akinyelure, the Subnational Intervention Specialist, Ms. Tosin Ipaye, commended the organizers and emphasized the importance of preparing young Nigerians for opportunities in the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) fields.

Ms. Ipaye also joined other industry stakeholders in a panel session where she highlighted the role of programmes like the Energizing Education Programme (EEP II & III) in equipping young people, particularly women, with practical renewable energy skills.

“Platforms like YES-FEST are essential in shaping a generation that will lead Nigeria’s renewable energy future,” she stated. “Through initiatives such as the EEP, we are not only delivering power solutions, we are developing the talent that will sustain them.”

The panel also stressed the importance of early exposure to clean energy opportunities and encouraged students to pursue careers that support the nation’s ongoing energy transition.

YES-FEST featured a range of engaging sessions, including Innovation Exhibitions, Technical Solar Energy Workshops, and Awards for Outstanding Creativity. Participants showcased their renewable energy models, demonstrating practical applications of clean energy concepts. Notable speakers such as Prof. Kafayat Olafunke Adeyemi of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) and Mr. Arinze Ndukaogu of NASENI Solar Energy Ltd.

The REA–NEP reaffirmed its readiness to support youth-focused capacity-building initiatives and welcomed partnerships that strengthen Nigeria’s renewable energy talent pipeline.