The Federal Government of Nigeria has received the endorsement of the United States for its solar power initiative, in a bid to enhance the provision of consistent and high-quality electricity to households and businesses nationwide.
According to a statement released by Bolaji Tunji, the Special Adviser for Strategic Communication and Media Relations, this backing was confirmed during a meeting in Abuja on Wednesday between the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Richard Mills, and the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu.
The project, undertaken in partnership with Sun Africa LLC, a leading American company dedicated to addressing Africa’s energy requirements, aims to provide essential power infrastructure to Nigeria.
Expressing the United States’ commitment to the project, Ambassador Mills assured that, “You have the support of the US government on the project.”
Furthermore, the Ambassador extended an invitation to the Minister for an upcoming Energy Summit scheduled for September 11-12, 2024, in Washington, focusing significantly on the electricity sector and engaging working groups in strategic energy discussions.
In response, Adelabu reaffirmed the Ministry of Power’s dedication to empowering local industries by ensuring adequate power supply for improved operational efficiency.
He highlighted Nigeria’s heavy reliance on imports, amounting to approximately 80% of its consumption, which poses a considerable strain on the nation’s limited foreign exchange reserves.
Adelabu specified the Ministry’s key priorities, including legislative initiatives to decentralize the power sector, the formulation of a National Integrated Electricity Policy and Strategic Implementation Plan, and the establishment of appropriate tariffs to drive market evolution and infrastructural enhancement.
Emphasizing the significance of infrastructure development through collaborations with international investors, Adelabu underscored the implementation of an energy transition strategy targeting net zero emissions.
Regarding the progress of the Sun Africa Power Project, Adelabu assured the visiting delegation of significant headway in obtaining the required authorizations for a seamless operational commencement.