Abuja: The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and Nigerian Armed Forces have met to discuss the National Public Sector Solar Power Initiative and explore potential collaborations in the deployment of solar power to military facilities. The meeting underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions, as well as the REA’s drive to expand renewable energy access to critical public infrastructure across Nigeria.
According to Voice of Nigeria, the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, explained during the meeting that the initiative is a Federal Government approved programme with an initial funding of ?100 billion. The program is designed to replace diesel generators in public institutions with sustainable solar power systems. Target beneficiaries of this initiative include schools, hospitals, government offices, and other critical facilities.
Dr. Aliyu stated, “The NPSSI is a collaborative effort led by the REA in partnership with the Budget Office of the Federation, Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria (InfraCorp), and the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI).” He emphasized that the goal is to cut energy costs, improve reliability, and advance Nigeria’s clean energy transition. Highlighting the relevance to the Armed Forces, Aliyu noted that several military formations had already expressed interest in solar interventions.
The Managing Director further explained that for military formations to participate, an MOU with the military leadership would be required, emphasizing that the initiative is a pay-for-service model to ensure long-term sustainability. He mentioned that similar agreements have already been signed with the Police Trust Fund, Nigeria Immigration Service, and Nigerian Correctional Service.
In response, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, welcomed the proposal and expressed appreciation for the REA’s outreach. He remarked, “This is a timely and much-needed intervention. Several critical formations are in dire need of reliable power supply.” He also mentioned that a military team would be set up to work closely with the REA to identify priority locations and develop a clear implementation plan.
Both parties discussed leveraging the Nigerian Army Engineers and Logistics Unit to support deployment, installation, and maintenance of the solar systems. The proposal will be further reviewed by a joint REA-Military Solar Committee to be established following the meeting.