The Centre for Convention on Democratic Integrity, a non-governmental organization in Nigeria and Maryland, United States, has announced a partnership with the United Nations and the University of Washington to reduce oil theft and improve Nigeria's energy sector.
They will hold a session called 'Sustainable Energy Security in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges, and Prospects' during the upcoming spring meetings of the World Bank and IMF Boards of Governors, set to take place from April 15 to 20 in Washington DC, United States.
A statement signed by the Permanent Representative of CCDI, Olufemi Aduwo, and a Director of Clean Energy, University of Washington, Prof Dan Schwart, on Tuesday, noted that the session aimed to address crucial aspects of Nigeria's energy security landscape.
Aduwo mentioned that the objectives were to emphasize the challenges of oil theft, the international approach to combat the issue, and the opportunities for potential investors in Nigeria's energy sector.
Wally Adeyemo, a Nigerian-American and the current Deputy Secretary of the Treasury, United States, will deliver a keynote message at the session.
Aduwo added that CCDI's mission is to ensure that the world remains a unique community of freedom, peace, security, and shared values, including individual liberty, human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
He stated, “We are committed to the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, focusing on peace and security, rights, and sustainable development.”
He also mentioned, “Since 2012, the organization has organized sessions during World Bank and IMF Boards of Governors meetings and at the United Nations in New York, focusing on global and regional socio-political issues.”
Regarding the ongoing crisis between Russia and Ukraine, the organization's representative stated that it submitted a letter and met with the Director General of the United Nations Office at Geneva to discuss how the war could be contained, highlighting the global economic slowdown.
“The uncertainty caused by COVID-19, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, significant changes in international trade, and political unrest have left many disheartened and led to social tension, increased inequality worldwide, and a more urgent need for cooperation,” he explained.
Aduwo stated that despite the global economic situation in Nigeria, all efforts must be made to resolve the crisis and the main issues.
He emphasized, “The government must address corruption and stop widespread theft by government officials, including elected officials and top civil servants.”
