By TheWatch.NG – April 22, 2025
The Nigerian Presidency is transitioning to solar energy — and it’s costing taxpayers a staggering ₦10 billion.
Tucked into the recently approved 2025 budget is a capital allocation for installing a solar mini-grid at the Presidential Villa, Aso Rock. The system is intended to reduce the Villa’s electricity expenses, reportedly in response to the high cost of Band A power tariffs.
But as millions of Nigerians endure persistent blackouts and soaring energy bills, many are asking: What exactly are we paying for?
A ₦10 Billion Question
According to official documents, the mini-grid will power critical areas of the State House, including the Medical Centre and former government buildings in Lagos. Internal estimates suggest the new system could save the presidency up to ₦5 billion annually on electricity bills.
Still, the ₦10 billion price tag — about $6 million — has raised eyebrows. Solar industry experts say similar systems can cost significantly less depending on their size and purpose.
Symbol or System Failure?
While the presidency frames the move as forward-thinking and eco-friendly, critics argue it sends the wrong message.
“If the president can’t trust the national grid, how can ordinary Nigerians?” one energy analyst asked.
Rather than leading a broader transition to clean energy, the presidency appears to be opting out of a broken system — a move many interpret as symbolic of failure rather than reform.
What Did the White House Spend?
For comparison, the U.S. White House has utilized solar energy since 1979. A significant upgrade in 2013 cost between $262,000 and $1 million — a far cry from Nigeria’s ₦10 billion bill. Importantly, the White House’s installation was largely symbolic and integrated into an already stable energy infrastructure.
Where Could ₦10 Billion Go?
Energy access in Nigeria remains limited, with millions in rural and peri-urban areas living in darkness. Analysts argue that ₦10 billion could finance solar mini-grids for dozens of communities or equip hundreds of hospitals with consistent power.
“This isn’t about solar,” one citizen wrote on social media. “It’s about what leadership chooses to prioritise.”
Public Reactions on X
The project has sparked heated debate online, with many Nigerians venting their frustrations:
@boylumy: “N10 billion for solar panel… why are you people acting like this is normal?”
@__mrpedro: “10B for solar power in Aso Rock. Nigeria not going to make it.”
@MohWorldent: “Nigerians shouldn’t keep taking this disrespect. N10B for power because they failed to fix the grid?”
@datguyabdull: “Strategic disassociation from national problems. Leadership is opting out instead of fixing it.”
Whether a visionary shift or a tone-deaf expense, one thing is clear: Nigerians are watching closely and asking hard questions.
