The Minister of Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has announced that the Nigerian federal government plans to halt solar panel importations to promote local production and accelerate the country’s clean energy transition.
Speaking during the unveiling of NEV T6 electric buses in Abuja, Nnaji said the move aligns with Presidential Executive Order No. 5, which aims to promote local content in scientific and technological sectors.
Local Production and Energy Independence
In an interview with The Sun, the minister noted Nigeria’s capability to meet its solar energy demands domestically, highlighting the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) as a key player in local solar panel manufacturing.
“We will stop all importations of solar panels,” Nnaji declared. “We will support our local industries to grow, and very soon, most houses will go off-grid.”
Renewable Energy Investments
Nnaji projected significant developments in renewable energy infrastructure, including plans to power hospitals and institutions with solar energy within the next three to four months. He noted the country’s abundant lithium resources would be crucial in producing batteries for electric vehicles and solar storage systems.
“We are creating power everywhere,” the minister said. “It’s about non-carbon emission infrastructure and saving the environment.”
The government’s strategy includes encouraging private sector participation in solar panel production, with NASENI already operating a solar panel factory and other private manufacturers entering the market.
The ban on solar panel imports is expected to stimulate local manufacturing, create jobs, and position Nigeria as a potential regional leader in renewable energy technology.
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