The Federal Government has expanded Nigeria’s renewable energy programme with the rollout of 60.82 megawatts (MW) of mini-grid projects, reinforcing efforts to improve electricity access for underserved communities while supporting economic growth and sustainable development. The initiative forms part of the country’s broader strategy to increase clean energy adoption and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. (punchng.com)

The projects are being implemented through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) in partnership with development partners and private sector investors. The mini-grid programme is designed to provide reliable electricity to homes, schools, healthcare facilities, markets, and small businesses located in communities that are either off the national grid or receive limited power supply. (punchng.com)

According to the REA, the latest rollout will improve access to affordable and sustainable electricity for thousands of Nigerians while stimulating local economic activities. Reliable electricity is expected to support businesses, improve healthcare delivery, enhance educational outcomes, and create employment opportunities in beneficiary communities.

The agency explained that renewable mini-grids have become an important component of Nigeria’s energy transition strategy because they can be deployed more quickly and cost-effectively than extending the national transmission grid to remote areas. Solar-powered systems, battery storage, and other clean energy technologies are expected to play a growing role in meeting the country’s increasing electricity demand.

Government officials noted that expanding renewable energy infrastructure will also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting cleaner sources of power generation. The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to increasing energy access while supporting global climate and sustainable development goals.

Energy experts say mini-grids are becoming an increasingly important solution for addressing Nigeria’s electricity deficit, particularly in rural communities where grid expansion remains economically challenging. They note that reliable power supply can improve productivity, encourage investment, strengthen local industries, and support housing development through access to modern infrastructure.

Stakeholders also believe that continued collaboration between government, development finance institutions, and private investors will be essential to scaling renewable energy projects nationwide. They argue that sustained investment in decentralised energy systems will help improve electricity reliability, enhance economic resilience, and accelerate inclusive development across Nigeria.

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Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, says it spends nearly ₦4 billion annually on electricity, a situation the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, described as crippling and unsustainable.

“The university spends close to ₦4 billion every year on energy. This figure is not only shocking but clearly unsustainable. It is crippling our operations and undermining our ability to deliver quality education and conduct meaningful research.”

Speaking at a press conference to mark ABU’s 63rd anniversary, Ahmed said the institution could no longer rely on the national grid, noting that it had begun transitioning to renewable energy to reduce costs and achieve stability.

“We have embarked on a renewable energy drive to achieve self-reliance. ABU is taking its destiny into its own hands while continuing to seek external support to sustain growth.”

He disclosed that the Federal Government had provided ₦1 billion through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to ease the university’s energy burden, while a 10-megawatt solar project had been approved to provide stable power. Members of the university’s alumni, particularly the SBS Class of 1975, are also supporting a solar-powered CBT centre.

Reflecting on ABU’s founding vision, Ahmed said the university was established in 1962 by the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello, to serve as a bridge of unity and progress.

“Sir Ahmadu Bello founded ABU to train the manpower required for the development of Northern Nigeria and, by extension, the whole country. He envisioned an institution rooted in service, excellence, and unity.”

He lamented that insecurity and poverty had slowed the North’s development, stressing that ABU would intensify research, agricultural innovation, and policy advocacy to address those challenges.

“Insecurity and poverty have undermined the North’s development and affected educational growth. ABU will intensify research, agricultural innovation, and policy advocacy to help restore hope and stability to our region.”

Ahmed said ABU remains the most resource-endowed agricultural research institution in West Africa, with facilities such as the Institute for Agricultural Research and the National Animal Production Research Institute.

“No other university in West Africa has the kind of agricultural research capacity we possess. We have the knowledge, the manpower, and the facilities to drive food security and rural development.”

He added that Times Higher Education ranked ABU as Nigeria’s best public university in 2025, with the institution securing over $20 million in international research grants and registering more than 30 patents.

“Funding remains a major challenge. We are therefore focusing on digital education, commercialising research, and nurturing start-ups from our innovations to make ABU more self-sustaining.”

The Vice Chancellor urged alumni to support their alma mater through endowments, donations, and mentorship.

“Our alumni are ABU’s greatest strength. The Sardauna gave you an opportunity; now it’s time to give back. You have the resources, the influence, and the talent to secure the future of this great university.”

As ABU celebrates its 63rd anniversary, Ahmed reaffirmed the university’s commitment to unity, service, and excellence.

“We have come a long way, but the journey continues. ABU will keep shining as a beacon of hope, knowledge, and national integration.”

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