Nigeria’s federal government has announced plans to suspend imports of solar panels, a decision unveiled by Minister of Science and Technology Uche Nnaji at the launch of the NEV T6 electric bus in Abuja.
Nnaji clarified that the move aligns strictly with presidential directives, prioritizing the development of local content in science, engineering, and technology. He underscored Nigeria’s robust solar panel production capabilities, emphasizing the pivotal role of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) in domestic manufacturing. The minister expressed optimism that as production scales up, more households and institutions will adopt off-grid solar solutions, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources.
In recent years, the Nigerian government has vigorously promoted renewable energy, with solar power, a key component of clean energy, receiving significant attention. Nnaji further highlighted Nigeria’s capacity to meet domestic solar energy needs. In March, the Rural Electrification Agency signed agreements to construct a 1.2GW solar module assembly plant, with plans for an additional 1GW facility, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to localizing the solar industry.
However, the policy has sparked controversy. The Lagos-based economic advisory firm Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE) has opposed the move. CPPE’s CEO, Muda Yusuf, stated in a declaration that Nigeria is not currently equipped to implement a ban on the importation of photovoltaic (PV) components.
Yusuf explained, “Currently, Nigeria’s per capita electricity consumption is approximately 160 kilowatt-hours (kWh), significantly below the sub-Saharan African average of 350 kWh. Promoting solar solutions has been one of the government’s most impactful energy reform initiatives, with notable progress already achieved. Banning PV component imports amidst clear domestic production shortfalls will exacerbate the country’s energy crisis.”
