By Faridat Salifu
The Federal Government has launched a nationwide programme to replace diesel-powered electricity in public institutions with solar energy under the National Public Sector Solarization Initiative (NPSSI).
The initiative, led by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), targets schools, hospitals, security posts, government offices, and other critical facilities.
REA Managing Director, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, said the scheme is part of Nigeria’s strategy to meet its energy transition targets while reducing the public sector’s carbon footprint.
He explained that the N100 billion-funded Phase 0 will fully solarise selected public institutions, with subsequent phases attracting private investment through blended financing models that avoid sovereign guarantees.
Aliyu said the plan reflects a shift toward clean, reliable power for public services, ending years of dependence on costly diesel generators.
Budget Office Director-General, Dr. Tanimu Yakubu, described the solarisation drive as essential to closing Nigeria’s long-standing energy gaps while improving fiscal efficiency.
InfraCorp CEO, Dr. Lazarus Angbazo, said the model offers a sustainable pathway for infrastructure financing, and MOFI Chief Investment Officer, Dr. Femi Ogunseinde, highlighted its role in building a diversified, lower-cost energy mix.
