The Federal Government says it is taking steps to halt the importation of solar panels, having already spent over N200 billion on the product.
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Abba Aliyu, Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), made this known during a roundtable meeting with the Lagos State Government, where both parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand rural electrification efforts.
Aliyu explained that part of the agency’s current plan is to promote local manufacturing of renewable energy equipment, leveraging existing facilities across the country. Lagos is seen as a strategic partner, with its strong track record in innovation and industrial development.
The agency has identified manufacturing plants in the state that can be supported to increase production. This aligns with Presidential Executive Order No. 5, which focuses on encouraging indigenous capacity and reducing dependency on imports.
However, the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN) has cautioned that banning solar panel imports without first strengthening local manufacturing could disrupt progress in the renewable energy sector.
Despite concerns from industry stakeholders, the Federal Government insists that boosting local production is essential for economic sustainability and long-term energy security.
