By Faridat Salifu
The federal government has announced plans to stop importing solar panels to enhance local production and facilitate Nigeria’s transition to clean energy.
Minister of Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, made this announcement during the unveiling of the NEV T6 electric buses in Abuja recently .
This initiative aligns with Presidential Executive Order No. 5, aimed at promoting local content in science, engineering, and technology.
Nnaji said Nigeria is already investing heavily in renewable energy infrastructure and has the capacity to fulfill its solar energy needs domestically, adding that Organizations like the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) are pivotal in the production of solar panels.
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The minister also noted that expanding local manufacturing would encourage more Nigerian homes and institutions to adopt off-grid power solutions.
Highlighting Nigeria’s natural resources, Nnaji stated, “We have lithium in abundance here in Nigeria, so Mr. President is already taking action. We are adding value to our raw materials.”
This lithium is expected to be processed into batteries for electric vehicles.
In response to concerns about Nigeria’s power challenges, Nnaji asserted, “We have power. It depends on the source of power we are talking about.”
He said mini-grids are being implemented nationwide and that solar power will soon energize hospitals and institutions. He emphasized the importance of transitioning to non-carbon-emitting energy sources and highlighted NASENI’s role in local solar panel production.
Nnaji expressed confidence that, through science and technology and the support of local industries, Nigeria would phase out solar panel imports.
