The minister of power, Adebayo Adelabu, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to expanding clean and modern energy access across Nigeria.

He made the pledge at the ongoing two-day Renewable Energy Conference 2025 in Abuja on Wednesday.

Mr Adelabu was represented by Metu Francis, principal electricity engineer at the ministry.

He said collaboration across the renewable energy value chain is essential as Nigeria expands local manufacturing, solar systems, mini-grids and climate-smart technologies.

“The ministry remains committed to enabling policies, improved financing and support for industry players expanding clean electricity access,” he said.

He said this year’s theme aligns with the ministry’s drive to deliver clean, reliable and affordable energy for all Nigerians.

Mr Adelabu commended the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN) for promoting collaboration, innovation and dialogue in the sector.

He said private-sector leadership, local manufacturing and community-driven solutions are vital to achieving national energy transition targets.

“Together, we can expand mini-grids, strengthen local capacity and support women, small businesses and underserved communities,” he said.

President of the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria, Ayo Ademilua, said the association continues to drive strong advocacy and strategic partnerships.

He said members have established solar panel assembly plants in the North and South, supplying domestic and export markets.

He said these investments have increased investor confidence, foreign investment and strengthened the renewable energy value chain.

Mr Ademilua said Nigeria still faces major energy access gaps, with 3.3 gigawatts far below the 9 gigawatt target for 2030.

He said millions of Nigerians still lack reliable electricity despite progress in the energy transition plan.

He called for predictable policies, stronger legislative engagement and full implementation of the Electricity Act 2023.

He said a Just Energy Transition must benefit rural communities, women, youths, small businesses and farmers.

Director-general of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Mustapha Abdullahi, represented by Halilu Sale, said the conference reflects Nigeria’s commitment to inclusive energy access.

He said strong public and private partnerships are essential for achieving universal access.

He said the commission is building national capacity through its Energy Research Centres.

He added that decentralised renewable solutions, including mini-grids and standalone solar systems, are key to reaching underserved communities.

He said true energy access must empower households, businesses and youths through green jobs and local manufacturing.

(NAN)