Nigeria, a country blessed with abundant sunshine, faces a significant challenge in its solar energy sector. Despite its vast potential for harnessing solar power, the sector struggles with high importation costs, slow adoption rates, and a reliance on foreign technology. In 2023, Nigeria imported over 4 million solar panels, valued at more than $200 million annually. This dependency on foreign imports not only inflates prices but also delays projects, stifling the growth of the renewable energy sector. The key challenge, therefore, lies in solving the gap in accessibility, quality, and cost-efficiency of solar energy products, while simultaneously driving local production and job creation.

A major part of the solution lies in reducing the importation of solar panels and fostering local production. By locally manufacturing Grade A solar panels, Nigeria can drastically lower procurement costs, improve delivery timelines, and create jobs for its growing population. This transition to local production could revolutionize the solar industry, making clean, affordable energy more accessible to Nigerians and accelerating the country’s progress toward energy sustainability.

The Impact of Import Dependence:

This heavy reliance on imported solar panels slows down the adoption of renewable energy technologies across Nigeria. The financial burden of import-related costs makes solar solutions less affordable for both businesses and households. Additionally, extended delivery timelines associated with international procurement delay critical solar infrastructure projects, hindering efforts to improve energy access, especially in rural communities.

Imported solar panels also pose quality control challenges. Products designed for different climates may not always meet Nigeria’s unique environmental conditions, leading to reduced efficiency and shorter lifespans. Moreover, dependency on foreign supply chains makes Nigeria vulnerable to global market fluctuations and geopolitical uncertainties, further threatening the stability and growth of its renewable energy sector.

The Local Solution: Manufacturing Grade A Solar Panels in Nigeria

To address these challenges, a strategic shift towards local manufacturing of Grade A solar panels is essential. By establishing local production facilities, Nigeria can significantly reduce procurement costs. This not only eliminates hefty shipping and import-related expenses but also stabilizes pricing, mitigating the impact of currency fluctuations.

Local manufacturing ensures faster delivery of solar products, cutting down project lead times. This agility allows for more efficient implementation of solar projects, enhancing the speed at which communities and industries gain access to reliable, clean energy. Additionally, local production can foster innovation, with products tailored to Nigeria’s specific climatic and environmental needs, ensuring higher performance and durability.

Driving Economic Growth and Job Creation

Beyond cost and efficiency, local solar panel manufacturing has the potential to stimulate Nigeria’s economy. It can create thousands of jobs across the value chain—from manufacturing and logistics to installation and maintenance. Developing local expertise in solar technology fosters a skilled workforce, reduces dependence on foreign technical support, and promotes sustainable economic growth.

The establishment of solar panel manufacturing plants can also attract foreign direct investment, as international companies seek partnerships with local firms to tap into Nigeria’s growing renewable energy market. This influx of investment can spur technological advancements, infrastructure development, and capacity building, positioning Nigeria as a regional hub for solar energy solutions.

Government’s Role in Accelerating the Transition

For Nigeria to fully harness the benefits of local solar panel production, the government must play a proactive role. Implementing supportive policies, such as tax incentives for local manufacturers, subsidies for renewable energy projects, and favourable regulatory frameworks, can encourage investment in the local solar panel industry. Additionally, public-private partnerships can drive innovation and expand access to financing for solar panel businesses.

The government should also invest in research and development to advance solar panel technologies tailored to Nigeria’s unique needs. Establishing training centres and technical programs can help build a robust workforce capable of supporting the solar industry’s growth, from engineering and design to installation and maintenance.

Conclusion

The solution to Nigeria’s solar energy gap lies in reducing the country’s dependence on imported solar panels and increasing local production. By manufacturing Grade A solar panels locally, Nigeria can lower costs, speed up delivery timelines, and create new jobs, contributing to both economic growth and energy sustainability. While there are challenges to be addressed, such as the need for raw materials and skilled labour, these can be overcome with strategic investments and partnerships. As Nigeria seeks to expand its renewable energy sector, local solar panel assembly stands as a critical opportunity to reduce costs, increase energy access, and pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future.

By Ahmadu Dansardauna

Giant strides made by man are usually relieved with pomp and pageantry .While some roll out the milestone amidst glass clinging. Some play the breakthrough low but all in praise and in anticipation of a better future ahead.

In this momentous instance, the success story always overshadows the nauseating hurdles and barricades accompanying such feats. Naturally some people excel in various ways of life, they stand out in anything they venture into, they are shining light, and they shape their environment and their world.

Such individuals of unique poise are celebrated everywhere, an action which encourages them to reach their peak .thereby, serving as an impetus to the younger generation. How else can one describe a super public administrator and dynamic legislator  of no mean repute , Senator Babangida Hussaini(Jigawa Northwest), newly appointed Chairman Senate Committee on North West Development Commission as he clocks the age of 61.

Sen Babangida Hussaini is a leader with an impressive background in administrative affairs, educational planning and community development service delivery. His expertise spans various domains, including public administrative affairs, policies, strategic matters, human resources development and educational administration. Over the years, he has made significant contributions to the nation’s development through his work with administrative and educational consultants, donor-funded organizations, NGOs/CBOs and international/national bodies.

Babangida Hussaini who was born on February 6, 1964 in Kazaure, Jigawa State, holds a BSC and MSC degrees in Public Administration from Ahmadu Bello University Zaria and the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna, respectively.

He began his public Service career in 1987 with the Kano State Government in 1991. In 2011 he transferred his service to the Federal Civil Service and rose to the position of a Permanent Secretary in 2020. He assumed office as the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Defence in September, 2020 before his redeployment to Federal Ministry of Works and Housing as the Permanent Secretary in December, 2020.

Babangida Hussaini played a pivotal role in various national assignments, showcasing his dedication to public service and knack for excellence. He is currently serving as the senator representing Jigawa North West, where he contributes to legislative duties of making laws, committee duties, oversight on the executive and ensuring accountability.

As permanent secretary of Federal Ministry of Works and Housing from Dec 2020-Feb 2022 as chief accounting and administrative officer he has facilitated policy implementation ,financial management and planning .He was earlier at the Ministry of Defence as Permanent Secretary  where he provided policy direction and support to the defence Minister from September 2020-December 2020.

Mr Babangida’s foray into the volatile political terrain after the serene confines of his public service has set a new research trend on the professionals in politics as his actions and utterances have redefined politics from the pejorative sense of the word.

He has completely rubbished the beautiful and well researched theory of the English philosopher and social analyst, New Clive, who claimed that “What politicians lack is not shortage of towering promises; what they appear to have in abundance is a congenital capacity to default on their promises”.

In his success story, few people erroneously tend to view it as if he employed underhand tactics to achieve them and in the process underestimate his Midas touch. The fact remains that he attained his present height through dint of hard work and unparalleled exhibition of moral discipline.

Senator Babangida perfectly described the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, when he postulated (to be yourself in the world that is trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment). A man who is tall, his accomplishments are taller than him. A man of lofty ideals, humility and generosity; he paradoxically has a simple philosophy of life and corresponding approach to challenges.

In recognition of his hard work, philanthropic activities and community engagement, Senator Babangida was conferred with the traditional title of Wali Kazaure by the Kazaure emirate council.

When the Senate Leadership began searching for the name of the Senator to Chair the important committee on Northwest Development Commission, one name kept ringing that is Dist Senator Babangida Hussaini (Walin Kazaure).

In his acceptance of the role he noted that role presents a significant responsibility to drive sustainable development, enhance infrastructure, and address key socio-economic challenges affecting the region.

“As we embark on this crucial task, I am committed to ensuring that the Commission fulfils its mandate efficiently and transparently, fostering inclusive growth and improving the livelihoods of our people.

“Through strategic policies, legislative oversight, and collaborative efforts, we will work towards unlocking the full potential of the North West region.

“I look forward to engaging with stakeholders at all levels to advance initiatives that will have a lasting impact. Together, we will insha Allah build a stronger, flourishing and more advancing North West which will contribute to a progressive Nigeria,” Senator Babangida posited.

His legislative priorities are education, health, good roads, and water. Also accredited to him are the following: sponsorship of students scholarships, infrastructural development which includes: solar street lights, hand pump and motorized boreholes, renovation of primary healthcare centres, building of skills acquisition centres, lobbying for the construction of roads and renovation of secondary and primary schools.

He is an advocate for Youth Empowerment and poverty alleviation. He has achieved these through: issuing of grants to the Youths and providing welfare packages to the less privileged long before his election for political office.

Walin Kazaure commands a lot of respect from his colleagues, largely due to the way he articulates his ideas and thoughts each time he speaks on the floor of the house as his colleagues listen with rapt attention whenever he contributes to any debate or table a motion which comes in regularly. His calmness and maturity has earned him the nickname “the stabilizer”, amongst friends and colleagues, many of whom consult him for advice which has come in handy more than a few times.

As a parliamentarian, Dr Babangida Hussaini (Walin Kazaure) has brought new meaning to representation by positively impacting on lives of the people he swore to serve diligently and honestly. His love for the people is expressed in the most outstanding unique people-centred legislation and selfless service.To borrow from the Greek writer Homer,” he is both a speaker of words and doer of deeds .benevolent and highly spirited.”

The story of the red chambers’ point man is that of triumph of human vicissitude. His life is proof that with strong will to succeed in life and divine nod to one’s actions, one can turn all obstacles to blessings. The journey through life is often one that carries with it a very strong desire for self-fulfillment, fulfillment of one’s dreams, desires, aspirations or even goals. Sometimes, this manifest celebration over accomplishments or bowed heads over dashed hopes. The visionary parliamentarian should be celebrated by all and sundry as he clocks 61 years of valuable contribution to humanity, constituency, Jigawa, Northwest region and Nigeria as a whole.

Dan Sardauna wrote in from Abuja

By Ekaette Okon-Joseph

When the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Umo Eno, pledged to reposition the civil service as the cornerstone of governance and public service delivery, sceptics might have thought it was a campaign slogan.

Today, however, his reforms have silenced doubters, setting a benchmark in civil service management through a deliberate and systematic approach.

Akwa Ibom remains one of the few states in Nigeria to consistently pay workers on time and from the recent approval of an N80,000 minimum wage to the consistent release of gratuities and strategic infrastructure investments, Governor Eno has redefined civil service as an engine for governance and policy efficiency.

Globally, the efficiency of civil services is a critical determinant of governance outcomes. Research by the OECD has shown that countries with well-compensated, motivated, and adequately equipped public servants achieve higher levels of policy implementation and citizen satisfaction.

Nigeria’s history of civil service reforms has often been marred by inefficiencies and lack of sustainability. According to a study published on ResearchGate, civil service inefficiencies in Nigeria have contributed to delays in policy implementation, wastage of resources, and public distrust.

As Q’connel (1981) was quoted by ResearchGate in “The Impacts of the Nigerian Civil Service Reforms on Effective Service Delivery” published in 2016 to have stated that “political leadership without administrative and technical support is power in a vacuum; and administration without political leadership is only tidiness in stagnation”

The recent approval for the commencement of the N80,000 minimum wage to be paid from January 2025—backdated to November 2024—stands as a testament to Governor Eno’s commitment to employee welfare.

After a thorough verification exercise, the state will begin disbursing the improved wages to 45,000 verified workers. As the governor aptly noted, “The civil service forms a critical mass of employees in our state government, and their welfare has remained a key priority.”

This reform aligns with modern human resource principles, which emphasize fair compensation, employee engagement, and fostering a culture of trust and transparency. Simon Sinek, a leadership expert, said it best: “When people are emotionally invested, they want to contribute.”

By addressing the economic hardships faced by workers, the governor is nurturing an emotionally invested workforce eager to drive the ARISE Agenda for Akwa Ibom’s development.

Governor Eno’s administration has built a reputation for prioritizing worker welfare as the bedrock of effective governance.

In addition to the minimum wage, his government introduced a 13th-month salary, aptly nicknamed “Eno-Mber,” and distributed over N47 billion in gratuities from the N97 billion backlog inherited from previous administrations since 2012.

Furthermore, pension payments have increased by N32,000 for retirees across the board, offering much-needed relief to this vulnerable demographic.

These measures underscore the governor’s acknowledgment of civil servants as vital stakeholders in governance.

Their welfare is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic tool for enhancing service delivery. Evidence from a 2022 Gallup Research on employee engagement reveals that organizations with highly engaged employees report a 21% increase in profitability.

While this research focused on private firms, the same principles apply to public service: motivated workers drive better outcomes.

Governor Eno’s presentation of 22 brand-new vehicles to all permanent secretaries earlier this month exemplifies his commitment to providing the tools required for optimal performance. Describing the gesture, the governor stated, “I am not comfortable seeing permanent secretaries using public means of transportation to work. Such situations hinder productivity.”

This symbolic but practical gesture not only enhances the functionality of the civil service but also elevates the prestige of these high-ranking officials. As Vince Lombardi aptly noted, “Individual commitment to a group effort—that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.”

By rewarding loyalty and hard work, the administration inspires a ripple effect across the entire workforce, fostering an environment where excellence is the standard.

At the valedictory State Executive Council meeting on January 10, 2025, the governor emphasized the importance of ensuring that senior civil servants operate with dignity and comfort, stating, “Rising through the ranks to the position of Permanent Secretary is an enviable achievement worthy of prestige and deserving of some comfort.”

Further, the appointment of 22 new permanent secretaries in 2024, coupled with their access to operational vehicles, reflects a deliberate strategy to boost capacity within the state’s governance structure. The decision emphasizes inclusivity, meritocracy, and strategic positioning for efficiency.

The reforms extend beyond wages and vehicles. The governor’s administration has made monumental strides in capacity-building and social safety nets. Public servants have benefited from ₦1.1 billion in bonuses and free housing through a raffle draw for 150 homes at Grace Estate to workers on grade levels 1-8.

These efforts address the multifaceted needs of workers, from financial stability to housing security, allowing them to focus on delivering value to the state.

Additionally, Governor Eno has strengthened Akwa Ibom’s healthcare infrastructure. The launch of the Arise Care Medical Insurance Scheme ensures better healthcare access for over 10,000 public service employees and senior citizens which have already been enrolled, with plans for expansion in 2025.

The commissioning of model healthcare centres and the restructuring of Ibom Specialist Hospital demonstrate a commitment to sustainable health and welfare programs for workers and residents alike.

Governor Eno’s reforms resonate beyond Akwa Ibom. His approach offers a blueprint for subnational governments in Africa to reimagine civil service as a catalyst for good governance. Research from the International Journal of Public Administration shows that well-compensated and engaged civil servants are more likely to implement policies effectively, fostering trust in government institutions.

Moreover, his emphasis on yearly personnel verification exercises ensures accountability and transparency in the state’s workforce. Such practices mitigate payroll fraud, allowing resources to be allocated where they are most needed.

Governor Eno’s civil service reforms borrow heavily from private-sector management principles, emphasizing employee engagement, reward systems, and performance metrics. By aligning governance with these principles, Akwa Ibom is poised to attract and retain top talent in public service.

The governor’s partnership with organized labour further exemplifies his collaborative leadership style. As he noted during the receipt of the verification report, “We have done a lot to engender good government-labor relations… we all have a responsibility to Akwa Ibom State.”

This inclusive approach sets the tone for a progressive governance model anchored on shared responsibility.

Governor Eno’s civil service reforms are more than welfare initiatives; they are strategic investments in the machinery of governance.

By prioritizing workers’ welfare, providing tools for success, and fostering accountability, his administration is building a civil service capable of delivering on its mandate efficiently and effectively.

As Akwa Ibom State emerges as a model for subnational governance in Africa, one thing is clear: Governor Eno’s policies are not just reshaping the state’s workforce but are also charting a new course for governance excellence.

Ekaette Okon-Joseph is the Special Assistant to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State on Media and writes from Uyo, the state capital.