The Federal Government has announced plans to roll out a ₦100 billion solar power programme for public institutions across Nigeria as part of efforts to address electricity challenges and reduce energy costs.
The initiative, known as the National Public Sector Solarisation Initiative (NPSSI), will deploy solar mini-grids and renewable energy systems to key government establishments, including universities, hospitals, and security agencies.
Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Abba Aliyu, said the programme had been approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to help institutions struggling with unreliable grid electricity and rising power bills.
According to Aliyu, “Mr President approved ₦100 billion for the National Public Sector Solarisation Initiative,” noting that the intervention targets public institutions that are underserved or facing difficulty paying for electricity.
He explained that the programme will power critical facilities with cleaner energy while reducing reliance on diesel generators.
Describing the initiative, Aliyu said it is “a flagship, government-led programme designed to accelerate the deployment of distributed solar energy solutions across Nigeria’s public sector institutions.”
Several institutions are expected to benefit from the scheme, including federal universities and teaching hospitals such as the University of Lagos, University of Ibadan, and the University College Hospital Ibadan, among others.
Officials say installations have already begun in some government agencies and health institutions, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, and the National Hospital Abuja.
Aliyu added that the project forms part of broader efforts to expand electricity access and support Nigeria’s transition to renewable energy, noting that reliable power is essential for hospitals, schools, and other public services to function effectively.
The government says the solarisation programme will also help reduce the cost of governance while improving energy reliability across public institutions nationwide.
