The Federal Government has cautioned stakeholders in the energy sector against depending solely on importation to drive Nigeria’s renewable energy growth, stressing the need to boost local production and innovation.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ forum in Abuja, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, said the country cannot achieve sustainable energy independence by relying on imported solar panels, batteries, and other renewable energy components. He noted that excessive dependence on foreign products weakens the nation’s economy and limits job creation opportunities.
Nnaji explained that the government is working towards encouraging local manufacturers to take advantage of Nigeria’s vast natural and human resources to build capacity in the renewable energy value chain. “We must look inward and develop indigenous capacity that will support our energy transition goals. Importation should be complementary, not the driver of our renewable energy efforts,” he stated.
The minister added that the government’s new policies aim to support local investors through incentives, funding, and technology transfer partnerships with foreign companies. According to him, this approach will ensure long term sustainability in power generation and distribution while boosting industrialization.
He also emphasized that the renewable energy sector presents significant opportunities for research institutions, engineers, and entrepreneurs to create affordable and efficient energy solutions that meet Nigeria’s growing demand. “We have the brains and resources to build what we need. What is required now is commitment and collaboration,” Nnaji added.
Experts at the forum commended the government’s renewed focus on local production, saying it would help reduce capital flight and strengthen Nigeria’s clean energy ecosystem.