₦10 Billion for Solar Power at Aso Rock: A vote of no confidence in Nigeria’s power sector?, by Dr Tukur Madu Yemi
The recent approval of ₦10 billion to install a solar power system at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa has been presented as a move toward clean energy. But for many Nigerians, it feels like something deeper: a clear message that even our leaders no longer trust Nigeria’s power system.
For years, Nigerians have suffered poor electricity. Businesses shut down, hospitals struggle, schools are affected, and the economy slows down. In response, people turn to noisy generators, expensive fuel, and alternative sources—just to keep going.
Now, the highest seat of power in the country has chosen to leave the national power grid and rely on its own solar system. This is not just a technical decision—it is a loud and clear sign that the system has failed. If Aso Rock can’t rely on our power supply, what hope do ordinary citizens have?
Yes, solar energy is the future. But using ₦10 billion to give steady power to a small group of top officials—while millions of Nigerians remain in darkness—raises serious concerns about leadership, fairness, and our national direction.
What This Decision Really Tells Us
1. The Government Has Given Up on the National Grid
By installing solar power at the Villa, the government is quietly saying it no longer believes in the system it controls. If our leaders can’t trust it, why should the rest of us?
2. Two Nigerias: One With Light, One Without
While ordinary Nigerians face daily blackouts and rising electricity bills, those in power will now enjoy smooth solar electricity. This shows a growing gap between the government and the people.
3. It Weakens Trust in Power Sector Reforms
The government has long promised to fix the power sector and attract investors. But this action sends the opposite message. If the government won’t use its own grid, why should investors?
4. Misplaced Priorities
₦10 billion could bring solar power to thousands of schools, clinics, and homes across Nigeria. Using that money only for Aso Rock shows poor priorities. We need a government that invests in all Nigerians, not just a few.
5. Leaders Protecting Themselves Instead of Solving Problems
This is part of a worrying pattern: government leaders protect themselves from the suffering ordinary people face. If they don’t feel the pain of bad electricity, will they ever fix it?
Read also: Jigawa, Kano get 2 hr power supply daily as FG earmarks ₦10bn for solar in Aso Villa
Let’s Talk About Fairness in Energy Access
This is not an attack on solar power. Solar energy is good. But it should not be only for the rich and powerful. It must be for everyone—schools in Borno, hospitals in Bayelsa, markets in Kano. Clean energy should reach all Nigerians, not just government buildings.
Electricity should not be a luxury. It is a right—something every Nigerian needs to grow, learn, and live well.
The Presidential Villa should not be a symbol of escape from a broken system. It should be an example of how clean energy can work for all. Until that happens, the phrase “Up NEPA!” will continue—not with joy, but as a sad joke about our failure.
After Trillions Spent, Why Are We Still in the Dark?
Even after spending trillions of naira over the years, Nigeria still has poor electricity. Aso Rock’s move to solar is not just a smart energy choice—it is a sign of retreat. It shows that even our leaders no longer believe in the power system they built.
But this moment also offers a chance. Our leaders can choose to stop running from problems—and start solving them. They can lead an energy revolution that includes everyone, not just themselves.
In a country where many still live in darkness, the silence of our leaders speaks louder than the roar of our broken generators.
Dr Tukur Madu Yemi
Federal University of Kashere, Gombe
Email: alhajitukur68@gmail.com
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