N10bn Solar Panel Option: FG Says N47bn To Power Aso Villa Annually Unsustainable

The decision to install N10 billion solar panels in Aso Rock Villa has been justified by the federal government following backlash from the public.

Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, Director General & CEO of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), has backed the Presidency’s multi-billion naira solar power project, describing it as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s path toward a more sustainable and reliable energy future.

Speaking at the ECN Headquarters in Abuja on Friday, Abdullahi addressed public concerns surrounding the initiative, emphasizing its vital role in the nation’s power sector reforms.

According to the ECN boss, the solar project aligns seamlessly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to transform Nigeria’s energy landscape and eliminate the persistent energy debt that has plagued the country for years.

He disclosed that it is unsustainable for the Aso Rock Villa to continue to pay about ₦47 billion yearly in power bills.

Abdulahi added that it was for the above reason that President Bola Tinubu approved ₦10 billion for the solar power grid to power the presidential villa.

While briefing journalists on Friday, he stated that the solar panel installation will bring uninterrupted and clean energy, create jobs, foster innovation among Nigerian engineers and energy experts.

In addition to its environmental and economic benefits, the solar power project is expected to generate jobs, support local entrepreneurship, and bring electricity to Nigeria’s rural communities, where access to power remains limited.

“Solar energy offers efficiency and shields Nigerians from rising tariffs, inspired by global models like Kenya’s solar grids and Germany’s renewable industries. It will create jobs, empower entrepreneurs, and electrify rural communities, easing grid pressure and driving power sector reforms,” he remarked.

Abdullahi also pointed out that it would ultimately reduce pressure on the national grid as some of the innovations of the federal government have resulted in partnerships, resulting in  $5.3 billion of investment earmarked earmarked for grid expansion measures.

The ECN boss urged Nigerians to look beyond immediate concerns and focus on the long-term benefits of this initiative as the project would help ignite a nationwide energy revolution, bringing clean, affordable electricity to millions, particularly in underserved areas.

“I urge Nigerians to focus on the long-term gains of this investment. It will spark an energy revolution, delivering clean, affordable power while supporting President Tinubu’s goal to eliminate energy debt and establish Nigeria as a renewable energy leader,” Abdullahi added.

Recently, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, defended the controversial N10 billion solar power project proposed for the Aso Rock Presidential Villa.

Onanuga cited global best practices, highlighting the use of solar energy at the White House in Washington D.C., United States, as a successful example of solar energy integration at a key government institution.

His comments came in response to the growing public backlash over the multi-billion naira project.

While some Nigerians have praised the initiative as a step towards sustainable energy and reduced dependence on the unreliable national grid, others have voiced strong criticism.

Critics argue that investing N10 billion in solar infrastructure for a single location, the seat of government, is an extravagant move, especially in a country where millions of citizens still lack access to reliable electricity.