By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.
Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to driving local manufacturing, innovation, and investment in the renewable energy sector, describing the transition as “an essential step toward a sustainable and self-reliant Nigeria.”
Speaking on Tuesday at the Nigeria Renewable Energy Innovation Forum (NREIF) 2025 held at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, Shettima said the government’s “Nigeria First Policy” aims to anchor Africa’s renewable energy supply chain right on home soil — from solar panel assembly lines to battery recycling facilities.
The Vice President revealed that Nigeria presents an investment opportunity worth over $410 billion between now and 2060, with more than $23 billion required in the short term to expand access to electricity for millions still living in energy poverty.
“Our ambition is bold — to achieve 277 gigawatts of installed capacity by 2060,” Shettima said. “But beyond access lies the grand vision — building local capacity and transforming Nigeria into Africa’s renewable energy manufacturing hub.”
Speaking further, Shettima disclosed that engagements from the forum have already mobilized over $400 million in new investment commitments into Nigeria’s renewable energy manufacturing value chain.
According to Shettima “These investments cover solar panel production, smart meters, battery storage, and recycling facilities,” he said. “They are projected to create more than 1,500 direct jobs across multiple states, signaling growing global confidence in Nigeria’s clean energy industrialization drive.”
The Vice President commended the Federal Ministry of Power for its “progressive policies” fostering a competitive and decentralized electricity market, and lauded the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) for translating policy into tangible impact.
“The REA’s work is illuminating homes, empowering small businesses, and transforming lives in communities that were once left behind,” Shettima noted.
Reaffirming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to the energy transition, Shettima emphasized collaboration between government, private investors, and development partners.
“Our success depends on the private sector, development partners, and regional manufacturers who can localize technologies, strengthen value chains, and invest in skills and knowledge transfer,” he stated.
The Vice President concluded that the NREIF 2025 is “not a forum for mere deliberations but a platform for action,” adding that over the next two days, partnerships will be forged and new roadmaps consolidated to accelerate Nigeria’s clean energy future.
“This is about translating ideas into power, not just for industries, but for schools, homes, and rural enterprises,” Shettima declared. “That is the true test of our resolve.”