Nigeria makes history as Osinbajo lays foundation of largest solar cell production plant in W’Africa
Nigeria’s Vice-President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, has laid the foundation of the largest solar cell production plant in West Africa.
The project, according to Osinbajo, is part of the federal government’s efforts to ensure a sustainable power supply across the country.
The foundation of the factory was laid in Gora, Nasarawa State on Friday March 24, 2023.
While speaking during the event organised by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Osinbajo called the initiative a strategic approach to finding a lasting alternative to the hydroelectric sourcing of power generation, and to boosting the Nation’s economy.
“This landmark achievement places Nigeria within the ranks of countries pushing the boundaries in the use of climate-smart alternative energy sources, particularly solar power. And as we have heard, this particular project is built on 10 years of work.
“Ten years ago, NASENI established its 7.5mw solar panel production plant. Its capacity is now 21MW,” he said.
Explaining the necessity for the innovation, the VP mentioned the effects that the enormous carbon monoxide emission from generators, automobiles and other steam engines have had on the global climate conditions.
He further applauded the FG for backing NASENI, a federal agency, that mandates technology inclusion in all sectors of the economy through allocation in the annual national budget.
“FG has given the needed financial support for NASENI to execute its mandate of delivering technological and innovative interventions across critical sectors of the economy, including agriculture, health, defence and security, power and energy, financial services, solid minerals, additive manufacturing, smart fabrications, factories, unmanned aerial vehicles, and virtual manufacturing,” he added.
He continued by stating that the pollution produced from the burning of fossil fuels alone surpassed the total power grid in 17 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The project will reduce carbon deposits in the ozone layer of the atmosphere and ensure accessibility of energy to all and sundry.
“The Energy Transition Plan is to set out our pathway to decarbonization by 2060 and achieving universal energy access by 2030.
“It also projects an increase in the use of solar power in the Nigerian energy mix, surpassing even gas by 2035,” he concluded.
