The Federal government has launched the National Public Sector Solarization Initiative (NPSSI), a programme aimed at providing electricity to key institutions using solar energy, with an initial funding of N100 billion.
The initiative, launched by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), seeks to accelerate the deployment of distributed solar energy solutions across Nigeria's public sector institutions, including schools, hospitals, security posts, and government offices.
The programme is part of a broader strategy to position Nigeria as the renewable energy hub of Africa, while promoting innovation, local manufacturing, and sustainability in energy infrastructure financing.
Speaking at the launch, REA Managing Director/CEO Abba Abubakar Aliyu emphasized the importance of inter-agency synergy and collaboration in driving the initiative's success.
Aliyu explained that the NPSSI is designed to power critical infrastructure with clean, reliable energy, while reducing diesel dependence and the public sector's carbon footprint.
The initial phase of the programme is fully funded by the Federal Government, with subsequent phases expected to leverage private capital from local and international funders.
Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation Dr. Tanimu Yakubu highlighted the significance of the initiative in addressing Nigeria's energy gap and strengthening fiscal efficiency in public sector operations.
InfraCorp MD/CEO Dr. Lazarus Angbazo hailed the initiative as a model for future infrastructure financing in Nigeria, while MOFI Managing Director Dr. Armstrong Takang emphasized the need for evolving funding models for Nigeria's energy sector.
The NPSSI is expected to drive localization of energy capability and supply chain integration, while promoting sustainable energy solutions for Nigeria's public sector institutions.