The Federal Government has unveiled a bold renewable energy initiative that will deliver 148 megawatts of clean solar power to government facilities across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The project, announced by Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), will see two megawatts of solar energy installed in each of the 37 federal universities and 37 tertiary hospitals across the country.
Dubbed the “Renewed Hope Solarisation Project,” the plan aims to reduce reliance on the overstretched national electricity grid while promoting sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions.
“This is a strategic move to ensure long-term energy efficiency across Nigeria’s educational and healthcare institutions,” Abdullahi said at a media roundtable in Abuja. “Each facility will be equipped with a hybrid solar system designed to provide reliable and uninterrupted power.”
N10bn Villa Solar Project Sparks Debate
The announcement also addressed recent controversy over the N10 billion solar project approved for the Presidential Villa, which has generated public debate over spending priorities.
Dr. Abdullahi defended the investment, explaining that the villa, along with other federal institutions in Abuja, had accumulated over N47 billion in unpaid electricity bills—a burden he described as unsustainable.
“Transitioning to solar power reduces long-term costs and sends a strong signal that Nigeria is serious about energy reform,” he said. “Countries like Kenya and Bangladesh have successfully deployed solar mini-grids to reach underserved communities. Nigeria cannot afford to lag behind.”
He emphasized that the move is about more than powering Aso Rock. “This is about building a decentralised, resilient energy system that empowers communities, reduces government spending, and creates thousands of jobs in solar manufacturing, installation, and maintenance.”
A Model for Africa
Highlighting global benchmarks, Abdullahi noted that Germany now generates nearly half of its electricity from renewables, despite having far less solar potential than Nigeria. “If industrialised nations with less sunlight can lead the renewable energy race, Nigeria should do even better.”
The ECN boss concluded that the solar rollout is a long-term vision to ensure energy independence, reduce carbon emissions, and unlock opportunities in the green economy.
“This isn’t just about lighting up buildings—it’s about lighting up futures.”
