By Abbas Nazil
Renewable energy solutions offer a practical and sustainable pathway to addressing Nigeria’s persistent energy crises and frequent national grid collapses, says Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha, Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN).
In a statement signed by Dr. Mustapha, he emphasized the urgent need for alternative, reliable power generation systems to complement the national grid and enhance the country’s energy security.
Dr. Mustapha underscored that renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower are crucial for overcoming the inefficiencies of the centralized grid.
He highlighted the federal government’s commitment to renewable energy through the implementation of the National Renewable Energy Roadmap (NRER), a collaborative initiative between the ECN and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
This roadmap, the ECN DG said, aims to decentralize power generation, reduce dependency on the fragile national grid, and provide a stable electricity supply.
Decentralized renewable energy systems, he explained, hold immense potential to bridge the power gap in underserved rural and semi-urban areas.
Dr. Mustapha said photovoltaic solar systems and onshore wind turbines, for example, can offer consistent electricity to regions often overlooked by the grid.
These systems would not only boost access to essential services like healthcare and education but also empower local economies by fostering the growth of micro-businesses.
The Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Mustapha’s revealed, is actively advancing policies to attract private sector investments, enhance local capacity, and prioritize renewable energy integration.
The DG explained that the recently unveiled National Energy Policy and its Master Plan aim to significantly increase renewable energy’s contribution to the national energy mix.
Through strategic collaborations with stakeholders, governments, and global organizations, the ECN is spearheading efforts to expand the country’s renewable electricity generation capacity.
Dr. Mustapha noted that technological advancements have made renewable energy systems more efficient and affordable over the years.
He stressed that a paradigm shift toward renewable energy is essential for Nigeria to close its energy gaps, reduce grid disruptions, and accelerate its progress toward energy independence and economic growth.
He reiterated that achieving energy stability and sustainability requires meaningful local and international collaborations. By leveraging renewable energy sources, Nigeria can ensure a steady power supply, enhance the quality of life for its citizens, and drive long-term economic development.