Energy Transition: Ex-Minister Urges Nigeria to Build More Hydropower, Solar Plants

At the 2024 International Conference of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Associations-Alliance (REEEA-A) in Abuja, former Nigerian Power Minister Prof. Barth Nnaji stressed the importance of accelerating solar and hydropower projects if Nigeria aims to increase its clean energy capacity by 2060. Nnaji, now CEO of Geometric Power Ltd., acknowledged that gas remains Nigeria's key transition fuel but urged for greater focus on renewable energy sources.

Nnaji highlighted that while Nigeria is well-suited for solar and hydropower, economic feasibility is critical. He also emphasized the need to build infrastructure to support electric vehicles, noting that the country must have recharging stations in place.

Minister of Power Chief Adebayo Adelabu, represented by Sunday Owolabi, Director of Renewable and Rural Power, reiterated Nigeria’s climate goals, which include reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20% unconditionally and up to 47% conditionally by 2060, in line with the Paris Agreement. He outlined various government projects aimed at achieving this, such as the development of large-scale hydropower plants like the 3,050 MW Mambilla and 700 MW Zungeru.

Prof. Abubakar Sambo, Chairman of REEEA-A, pointed to Nigeria’s significant potential for solar power, stating that the country could generate up to 551,000 MW using just 1% of its land area with an average of six hours of sunlight daily.

Other speakers, including Dr. Joy Ogaji of the Association of Power Generation Companies of Nigeria (APGC), and Hon. Afam Ogene, Chairman of the House Committee on Renewable Energy, underscored the urgency of proper implementation of Nigeria's Electricity Act to achieve the set goals. They emphasized the global push for renewable energy as a response to climate change and environmental sustainability.

The conference was a critical review of Nigeria's progress and challenges in its energy transition efforts, with various stakeholders advocating for a clear action plan to meet its clean energy targets.