By Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi
In an era where technological innovation shapes the destiny of nations, Nigeria stands at a crossroads. With pressing challenges in infrastructure, economic stagnation, security threats, unemployment, overstretched education sector and energy security threats, the urgency for transformative solutions has never been greater.
Fortunately, the world has offered a roadmap—developed nations have harnessed technology, particularly sustainable solutions through Renewable Energy Technologies to meet the global energy demand and drive unparalleled progress.
For Nigeria, embracing this solution is not an option but a necessity if we are to leapfrog development hurdles and secure a prosperous energy future.
One of the most crucial areas where technology can drive impact is infrastructure. Countries like Germany and China have built efficient, sustainable urban systems powered by renewable energy. Smart grids, solar-powered street lighting, and energy-efficient transportation networks have not only improved connectivity but also reduced costs. Nigeria can replicate this by investing in decentralized solar energy solutions to power rural communities, reducing reliance on a single grid. Imagine a Nigeria where every major road is well-lit by solar-powered LED lights, where government buildings and industrial parks run on hybrid renewable energy sources—such a reality is within reach with the right policies and investments.
Through the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, a clear roadmap to achieving a sustainable future in the Country has been demonstrated. Practical steps have been taken to implement this agenda like the development of the first Gazetted National Energy Policy and its implementation plan. These strategic initiatives have shown a clear roadmap for sustainable energy solutions. Other Government initiatives include localisation and domestication of renewable energy solutions in the country, setting up industries and factories for the local production of renewable energy products like Solar PV panels and Batteries leveraging on the country’s rich natural resources and raw materials. The ECN is currently developing a large scale Solar PV module assembling plants, a modular Green Hydrogen plant and a Bio-Methanol plant. These projects will provide more access to energy, reduce the cost of energy and guarantee energy security in the country.
Economically, renewable energy is a game-changer. This, I have always maintained. Nations like Sweden and Denmark have successfully built thriving green economies by integrating solar, wind, and hydro energy into their industrial frameworks. Nigeria, blessed with abundant sunlight and vast water bodies, has already began to tap into these resources to create jobs, reduce energy costs, and attract foreign direct investment. Take Morocco’s Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex, the world’s largest concentrated solar farm—it has not only provided energy security but has also created thousands of jobs. Nigeria’s potential to replicate such feats is immense, specifically in the northern region, where solar intensity is at its peak.
Security and job creation are two intertwined issues that technology can help resolve. In countries like Israel and the United States, renewable energy is made to power the security systems, from AI-driven surveillance to drone technology for border control. Nigeria can adopt similar measures by integrating solar-powered security cameras in high-risk zones and using tech-driven agricultural solutions to create jobs and reduce youth unemployment which is one of the major causes of insecurity. With over 60% of Nigeria’s population being under 25, training programs in sustainable solutions like solar panel technology, smart agriculture, and energy management can create employment opportunities, while simultaneously addressing our power deficit issues.
Education and general development also stand to benefit from this technology-driven approach. Countries like Finland and South Korea have transformed their education systems through digital tools and smart classrooms powered by renewable energy. Imagine a Nigeria where every rural school has uninterrupted electricity from solar microgrids, where students in remote areas have access to digital learning platforms. This is achievable with strategic partnerships between the government, private sector, and international organizations.
As the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), one of the major players in the energy sector, I am pleased with the innovative policies, strategic partnerships and intentional financing made available by Presiden Bola Tinubu, under the auspices of the “Renewed Hope Administration.” The inclination and efforts of Mr. President through the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, where the Honourable Minister, Chief Uche Nnaji, holds sway, signal hope, and stand commendable.
At this juncture, it is pertinent to announce a very critical project initiated by the Federal Government towards improving the energy supply and demand gaps through renewable energy sources. The Federal Government has recently appropriated funds for ‘Solarisation of critical infrastructure across the country’ to the ECN. This project will be fully implemented by the ECN. Critical Infrastructures like Universities, teaching hospitals and other public institutions will benefit from this solarisation initiative. Specially, upto to 2 megawatt solar hybrid mini grid of power will be installed in every federal government institutions and hospitals across the country (36 states including FCT). The Energy Commission of Nigeria has begun energy audits across the universities and medical institutions to determine the energy needs of the institutions. This project is aimed to be completed before the year ends.
By investing in renewable energy technologies and smart technology solutions, Nigeria can accelerate its development trajectory, ensuring a future that is not just sustainable but also prosperous for generations to come.
Engr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Ph.D, FNSE, CEng, MIMechE
Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Abuja, Nigeria.
