- The Federal Government of Nigeria has secured US backing for its solar power project, with Sun Africa LLC leading the initiative to enhance its energy infrastructure.
- US Ambassador Richard Mills invited Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, to an Energy Summit in Washington, DC.
In a significant boost for Nigeria’s energy sector, the Federal Government has secured support from the United States for its ambitious solar power project. US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, announced this during a meeting with Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, in Abuja.
The solar initiative, spearheaded by the American company Sun Africa LLC, aims to address Africa’s energy needs by enhancing Nigeria’s power infrastructure. Mills’ visit to the Power Ministry was to review the Sun Africa project’s progress and express support for the Ministry’s ongoing efforts.
During the meeting, Mills invited Minister Adelabu to an Energy Summit in Washington, DC, from September 11 to 12, 2024. The summit will focus heavily on the electricity sector and feature working groups dedicated to strategic energy dialogue.
Minister Adelabu outlined the Ministry’s strategy for improving Nigeria’s power sector, emphasising the need to boost local industries with reliable electricity. He highlighted the country’s paradox of having a large population and market potential yet facing significant challenges due to its heavy reliance on imported goods, exacerbating the foreign exchange burden.
Adelabu detailed the Ministry’s priorities, which include five key areas: legislative support to decentralise the power sector, policy support to develop a National Integrated Electricity Policy and Strategic Implementation Plan, appropriate tariff adjustments to enhance market migration, infrastructure upgrades through partnerships with foreign investors, and an energy transition plan aimed at achieving net zero emissions.
On the status of the Sun Africa Power Project, Adelabu assured the visiting US team that significant efforts are underway to secure the necessary approvals for a smooth operational launch. The project is expected to address Nigeria’s energy challenges and support its industrial and economic growth.
This collaboration reflects a deepening partnership between Nigeria and the United States in the energy sector, highlighting a shared commitment to advancing sustainable and reliable power solutions for the country.