Abuja: The Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding clean and modern energy access across Nigeria. He made the pledge at the ongoing two-day Renewable Energy Conference 2025, where he was represented by Mr. Metu Francis, Principal Electricity Engineer at the Ministry. Adelabu emphasized the importance of collaboration across the renewable energy value chain as Nigeria works to expand local manufacturing, solar systems, mini-grids, and climate-smart technologies.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Adelabu stated that the Ministry remains committed to enabling policies, improved financing, and support for industry players who are expanding clean electricity access. He highlighted that this year’s theme aligns with the Ministry’s drive to deliver clean, reliable, and affordable energy for all Nigerians. Adelabu also commended the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN) for promoting collaboration, innovation, and dialogue in the sector. He stressed that private-sector leadership, local manufacturing, and community-driven solutions are vital to achieving national energy transition targets.
President of the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria, Mr. Ayo Ademilua, shared that the association continues to drive strong advocacy and strategic partnerships. He noted that members have established solar panel assembly plants in the North and South, supplying both domestic and export markets. These investments have increased investor confidence, attracted foreign investment, and strengthened the renewable energy value chain. However, Ademilua pointed out that Nigeria still faces major energy access gaps, with the current capacity of 3.3 gigawatts falling short of the 9 gigawatt target for 2030. He emphasized that millions of Nigerians still lack reliable electricity despite progress in the energy transition plan.
Ademilua called for predictable policies, stronger legislative engagement, and full implementation of the Electricity Act 2023. He emphasized that a Just Energy Transition must benefit rural communities, women, youths, small businesses, and farmers. Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, represented by Mr. Halilu Sale, noted that the conference reflects Nigeria’s commitment to inclusive energy access. He stated that strong public and private partnerships are essential for achieving universal access and highlighted the importance of building national capacity through the Commission’s Energy Research Centres. Decentralised renewable solutions, including mini-grids and standalone solar systems, were identified as key to reaching underserved communities, with true energy access aimed at empowering households, businesses, and youths through green jobs and local manufacturing.