By Haruna Salami
The Federal Government has commissioned a 500kW solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant at the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (HoSF) building in Abuja, marking a strategic shift from diesel-powered electricity to sustainable solar energy in one of the nation’s most critical public institutions.
The solar plant, which is the first phase of a planned 1MW project, is expected to cut electricity costs by millions of naira annually, drastically reduce diesel consumption, and eliminate productivity losses caused by frequent power ooutages
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Mahmuda Mamman, noted that the solar plant would meet up to 70 percent of the building’s daily energy needs, displacing several tonnes of carbon emissions annually in line with Nigeria’s international climate obligations under the Paris Agreement.
“This building is the nerve centre of Nigeria’s public service and policy development. Powering it with solar is not only symbolic—it is strategic. It shows this administration is serious about cost-effective and climate-smart governance,” Adelabu said.
He disclosed that the second phase of the project—which will add another 500kW to reach full 1MW capacity—would commence shortly, with replication planned for other federal institutions.
Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, described the project as a “major milestone” and applauded the technical partners, Truetech Global Investments Limited and GRB Solar Investment Limited, for their commitment to delivering global-standard clean energy solutions.
This is a proud moment not only for our team but for Nigeria. It’s a bold statement that renewable energy is no longer a concept for the future—it is happening now, here in our public institutions.
“The solar plant reflects a profound shift in our energy priorities and stands as a beacon of hope for future sustainability efforts across the public sector,” she said.
The Minister added that the project aligns with Nigeria’s target to achieve 30 percent renewable energy penetration by 2030.
He revealed that similar installations have been completed at the Ministry of Power headquarters, the Nigeria Defence Academy in Kaduna, Naval Base Onne in Rivers State, and the Teaching Hospital in Damaturu, Yobe State.
He urged private investors and development partners to key into Nigeria’s clean energy transition, citing available opportunities in solar, mini-grids and green financing.
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