The recent approval of N68.7 billion by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for solar electricity projects in Nigeria marks a significant milestone in the country’s drive toward sustainable energy and inclusive development. The investment, announced by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, is the first phase of a broader N200 billion solar initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Power.
At its core, the move reflects a deliberate shift in strategy, an acknowledgement that Nigeria’s traditional power supply model is no longer sufficient to meet the demands of its growing population, particularly in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and agriculture. This solar intervention, implemented through the Energising Education Programme (EEP) and managed by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), is designed to address longstanding power shortages in key institutions across the country.
According to Adelabu, the newly approved funds will support the engineering, procurement, and construction of solar mini grids for several universities and a teaching hospital. The institutions listed in this first phase include the University of Lagos, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife, University of Nigeria Nsukka, University of Calabar, University of Ibadan, and its teaching arm, the University College Hospital, as well as the Federal University in Wukari, Taraba State. These facilities have suffered from erratic electricity supply for years—affecting learning, research, and the delivery of healthcare services. The hope is that solar-powered systems will offer a more reliable, cleaner, and cost-effective energy solution.
The implications of this initiative are far-reaching. For universities, stable electricity means improved learning environments, better-equipped laboratories, and the ability to conduct advanced research without the constant threat of blackouts. In teaching hospitals, it could mean uninterrupted power for critical machines, improved patient care, and reduced reliance on diesel generators, which are both expensive and environmentally harmful.
Beyond the academic and medical institutions, the solar rollout also targets rural agricultural centres and farm clusters. These rural areas, often left out of national energy planning, stand to benefit immensely. With access to reliable power, small-scale farmers and agro-processors can improve productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, and even create jobs. The move aligns with the government’s broader economic goals to boost food production, promote rural industrialisation, and ensure inclusive growth.
This shift also supports Nigeria’s climate and environmental commitments. By replacing diesel-powered systems with solar energy, the government is taking a clear step toward a low-carbon future. It also helps reduce the pressure on Nigeria’s overstretched national grid, allowing for more balanced and efficient distribution of available energy.
However, while the approval is commendable, the real test lies in execution. Nigeria has witnessed many ambitious programmes fall short due to poor planning, bureaucratic delays, and weak oversight. Ensuring that these solar projects are delivered within the promised seven to nine months will require strong coordination, transparency, and continuous monitoring.
To that end, several critical factors must be considered. First, project implementation must be transparent and timely. The government should provide regular updates on progress and involve independent monitors to track delivery. Second, there must be an emphasis on local capacity building. Training university personnel, technicians, and even students to maintain these systems will ensure their sustainability. Third, especially in rural communities, community engagement is essential. Involving local stakeholders in planning and maintenance can increase acceptance and accountability.
Finally, this phase of the solar programme should not stand alone. It must be viewed as a pilot, with clear lessons to guide future expansions. With the right approach, the federal government could scale this initiative to reach all federal and even state-owned institutions nationwide.
The approval of N68.7 billion for solar projects is more than a budgetary decision; it is a statement of intent. It signals a new direction in energy policy, one that places sustainability, resilience, and equity at its centre. If implemented effectively, this initiative could become a model for future development projects and a critical turning point in Nigeria’s journey toward energy self-sufficiency.
In a nation where millions still live in energy poverty, solar may very well be the light at the end of the tunnel.
