Abuja: An entrepreneur, Dr Obaje Austin, has advocated the adoption of solar technology to drive economic growth, strengthen value chains, and create employment opportunities in Nigeria. Austin, Managing Director of Powerverse Tech Ltd. and Executive Director of Oyoyo Market Square Ltd., made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday in Abuja. He spoke during the one-year anniversary of Oyoyo Iceblock, a solar-powered business initiative.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Austin emphasized the potential of solar energy to revolutionize Nigeria’s economy and improve livelihoods across various sectors. He highlighted his solar-powered ice block production business as a demonstration of how renewable energy can support small-scale industries and stimulate economic activities. “For example, we developed the Oyoyo Ice Block Industry, which is powered 100 percent by solar energy, even though it was not part of our initial business plan,” he said.
Austin further shared his personal experience, noting that he had converted his residence to a fully off-grid solar-powered system, enjoying uninterrupted electricity supply for over two years. This system effectively powers appliances such as freezers, air conditioners, water pumps, and pressing irons without any reliance on the national grid.
The ice block business, which began on a small scale producing about 12 blocks, has gradually expanded its production capacity to between 48 and 50 blocks daily. This increase has attracted more customers and improved business performance. Austin noted that the initiative had successfully created jobs for graduates and prospective National Youth Service Corps members.
Customers from Mararaba in Nasarawa State and Gwagwalada Area Council frequently travel to purchase the ice blocks, demonstrating the business’s growing reach. According to Austin, the business has developed a value chain involving tricycle operators, traders, and retailers who depend on the product for their livelihoods. “In the mornings, tricycle riders transport the products, while women buy and resell them to others who use them to cool drinks for sale,” he said.
He emphasized that the ripple effect of the business supports multiple income streams and contributes to local economic development. Austin urged stakeholders to invest in solar energy solutions to unlock broader economic benefits nationwide. He also mentioned that his company had developed machines that could be remotely operated through mobile devices, with plans to upgrade the technology with advanced features during an upcoming trip to China.