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Lawmaker Backs Local Solar Manufacturing, Caution Against Immediate Import Ban

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Lawmaker Backs Local Solar Manufacturing, Caution Against Immediate Import Ban

By: Michael Mike

The National Assembly is considering a range of legislative and policy measures to strengthen local production of solar panels and renewable energy components in Nigeria, as part of broader efforts to tackle energy poverty and reduce installation costs nationwide.

The Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Environment, House of Representatives, Hon. Terseer Ugbor speaking at the Solar Power Nigeria’s National Stakeholders Engagement with theme: “Accelerating Nigeria’s Clean Energy”, said parliament is reviewing key issues affecting the sector, particularly the development of local manufacturing capacity for solar panels, batteries, and other renewable energy components.

According to him, expanding domestic production is critical to lowering the entry cost of solar energy systems for homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses—especially in rural communities where access to electricity remains limited.

“We are looking at how to polish policies around the renewable energy sector and support local manufacturers. If we can advance local production, we can reduce installation costs and expand access to solar power across Nigeria,” he said.

The lawmaker acknowledged concerns that encouraging local production could initially lead to higher prices compared to imported solar panels, particularly those produced at large scale in Asia.

“It is true that imported panels can sometimes be cheaper because countries like China produce at massive scale and export globally,” he noted.

However, he argued that through structured technology transfer and gradual capacity building, Nigeria can develop local manufacturing or at least assembly plants that create jobs and add value within the country.

Rather than immediate full-scale manufacturing, he suggested beginning with local assembly of components, which would stimulate employment, build technical expertise, and strengthen the country’s renewable energy ecosystem.

“Nigeria is already spending billions annually on solar imports. That level of demand is enough to sustain several local manufacturing and assembly plants,” he said.

He stressed that local production would not only reduce long-term dependence on foreign suppliers but also promote economic growth and sector sustainability.

“It is always better to manufacture or assemble components close to where they are installed. That strengthens the economy and ensures long-term sustainability.”

On calls by some stakeholders for a complete ban on solar panel imports, the lawmaker urged caution.

While he did not dismiss the idea outright, he emphasized that any ban must be preceded by a clear assessment of Nigeria’s readiness and production capacity.

“A ban is not entirely a bad concept, but it must be considered within the context of our preparedness. Do we have enough local capacity to meet demand? That is the key question,” he said.

He suggested that instead of an outright prohibition, Nigeria could adopt a phased transition strategy—such as imposing tariffs or import duties on foreign solar products—to give local manufacturers room to compete.

Countries with established large-scale production capabilities, he noted, can produce millions of panels at significantly lower costs, making it difficult for emerging Nigerian firms to compete without policy support.

According to him, a phased approach combining trade measures, investment incentives, and capacity development would allow Nigeria to gradually shift toward local production without jeopardizing affordability for rural communities.

“We must protect affordability while building local industry. A gradual transition, supported by smart trade policies and incentives, is better than an abrupt ban,” he said.

The lawmaker said that strengthening Nigeria’s solar manufacturing base would drive job creation, promote technology transfer, and enhance energy security over the long term.

“We cannot continue to depend entirely on foreign manufacturers. Building local capacity is essential if we want sustainable and affordable renewable energy across Nigeria.”

The Nigeria Country Lead, Global Strategic Communication Council, Daniel Oladoja pushed for evidence-based energy reforms have cautioned against an immediate ban on solar panel imports, arguing that policy decisions must be guided by data rather than sentiment.

He explained that the aim of the study was to introduce credible data into the national debate over local manufacturing and import restrictions.

“What we set out to do with this report is to bring evidence into the conversation,” a policy advocate said. “Anyone can say a ban is good or a ban is bad, but that is sentiment. When it comes to serious policymaking, you must rely on data.”

One of the report’s key findings is that more than 80 percent of Nigerians surveyed do not support a ban on solar panel imports.

“If government says it listens to the people, then it must pay attention to what the people are saying,” the advocate noted.

The report argues that while energy sovereignty and industrialization are legitimate national goals, policymakers must weigh these ambitions against affordability and access — especially in a country battling widespread energy poverty.

He said beyond public sentiment, the report highlights a significant cost disparity between imported solar systems and locally produced alternatives.

According to him, locally manufactured systems are approximately 16 percent more expensive than imported equivalents.

With the average functional household solar system costing around ₦2 million, that 16 percent difference translates to nearly ₦250,000 — a substantial amount for most Nigerian families.

“That margin is enough to discourage adoption,” the advocate explained. “When you’re talking about rural households, small businesses, or schools trying to install solar, ₦250,000 is not a minor difference.”

He said the report stresses that the debate over banning solar imports is not purely economic but also social, adding that a sudden restriction could slow the spread of renewable energy, particularly in underserved rural areas where solar systems are often the most viable electricity option.

“This is not just about industry. It’s about access to power. It’s about livelihoods. It’s about small businesses and healthcare facilities that depend on affordable solar solutions.”

Rather than an abrupt prohibition, stakeholders are recommending a structured five-to-ten-year transition plan.

They warned against repeating policy approaches seen in other sectors, where sudden border closures or bans disrupted markets without adequate local capacity in place.

“Don’t just wake up one morning and shut the borders,” the advocate said. “Have a clear strategic roadmap — build local capacity gradually, encourage assembly, incentivize manufacturers, and then phase down imports in a predictable way.”

Such a phased strategy, they argued, would protect affordability while allowing Nigeria to strengthen domestic production capacity over time.

The overarching message from the report is that policymaking must balance industrial growth with consumer welfare, guided by evidence, cost analysis, and public opinion.

“We are not opposing industrialization. We are saying: let’s do it strategically. Let’s use the numbers. Let’s use public sentiment. Let’s plan properly.”

As Nigeria pushes toward energy security and renewable expansion, the report concludes that careful sequencing — not abrupt restrictions — will determine whether local solar manufacturing becomes a catalyst for growth or a barrier to access.

On his part, the Executive Director, Global Initiative for Food Swcurity and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP), Micheal David said locally manufactured solar systems currently cost about 16 percent more than imported alternatives.

He said: “With an average household solar system costing roughly ₦2 million, that 16 percent difference can mean about ₦250,000 extra,” said an energy market analyst. “For rural households, that difference is enough to delay adoption.”

He noted that: “This is not just an industrial discussion. It is about healthcare facilities, small businesses, and families who depend on solar just to keep basic lights on.”

Stakeholders argued that Nigeria’s fastest path to universal electricity access lies in scaling up distributed renewable energy rather than relying exclusively on large utility-scale solar projects.

“The future for Nigeria is decentralized energy,” said a renewable energy consultant. “Mini-grids and rooftop solar are more realistic for rural electrification than trying to reach extremely high utility solar targets within a short period.”

Lawmaker Backs Local Solar Manufacturing, Caution Against Immediate Import Ban

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Military

Establishment of Army Depot in South-East Reflects FG’s Commitment to National Unity, Security and inclusiveness– COAS

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July 9, 2026

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Establishment of Army Depot in South-East Reflects FG’s Commitment to National Unity, Security and inclusiveness– COAS

By Zagazola Makama

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has said that the establishment of the Depot Nigerian Army in Amasiri-Edda, in Ebonyi State is a clear demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to national security, inclusiveness, national integration and balanced development across the country.

Shaibu made the remarks while addressing dignitaries during activities marking the inauguration of the newly established military training institution in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.

According to the Army Chief, the depot, which is the first primary recruit training institution of the Nigerian Army in the South-East geopolitical zone, represents a strategic investment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in strengthening national security and promoting equitable distribution of critical national institutions.

“The establishment of this depot reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to national security, inclusiveness, national integration and balanced development,” Shaibu said.

He described the inauguration of the facility as a landmark achievement in the ongoing transformation of the Nigerian Army under President Tinubu, noting that it would significantly enhance the Army’s capacity to train professionally competent and combat-ready soldiers.

The COAS disclosed that the first set of recruits trained at the new depot would graduate the following day, describing the event as a historic milestone not only for the institution but also for the evolution of recruit training within the Nigerian Army.

“Their graduation will not only mark the successful completion of basic military training but will also usher in a new chapter in the evolution of recruit training in the Nigerian Army,” he said.

Shaibu explained that since its establishment, the depot had steadily developed into a modern recruit training institution designed to produce disciplined, professional and capable soldiers in line with the Nigerian Army’s transformation agenda and long-term strategic vision.

He said the facility forms part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to modernise the Armed Forces and expand military capacity to address Nigeria’s dynamic security environment.

The Army Chief expressed profound appreciation to President Tinubu for approving the establishment of the institution and providing the necessary resources for its successful implementation.

He noted that the new depot would not only improve military training capacity but also strengthen the strategic importance of the South-East within Nigeria’s security architecture.

According to him, locating the institution in Ebonyi State underscores the government’s determination to ensure that all parts of the country benefit from national development initiatives while fostering greater national cohesion.

Shaibu also commended Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru for his unwavering support towards the establishment and successful take-off of the depot.

He said the state government provided accommodation, logistics and other essential support that contributed significantly to the successful training of the pioneer batch of recruits.

“From facilitating the historic groundbreaking ceremony to providing sustained support for this institution, the governor has demonstrated remarkable patriotism and an enduring commitment to national security,” he said.

The COAS further described the Government and people of Ebonyi State, as well as the entire South-East, as indispensable partners in the establishment and growth of the institution.

He also acknowledged the contributions of traditional rulers, political leaders, religious leaders, community leaders and residents of the state for creating a peaceful and conducive environment for the depot to thrive.

Shaibu reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to deepening its partnership with host communities and stakeholders, stressing that sustained collaboration between the military and the people remains critical to enhancing national security and maintaining lasting peace.

According to him, the state’s sustained support demonstrates a strong commitment to national security, peace and development.

The Army Chief further commended traditional rulers, community leaders, members of the State Development Committee, political and religious leaders, and other stakeholders for fostering a peaceful environment that enabled the successful establishment of the Depot.

He reaffirmed that the Nigerian Army values its partnership with the state and pledged to continue strengthening collaboration in pursuit of improved security and national development.

The COAS also paid tribute to distinguished retired senior military officers from the region for their contributions to the growth and development of the Nigerian Army.

The establishment of the Depot Nigerian Army in Ebonyi is widely regarded as one of the landmark military infrastructure projects under the Tinubu administration, aimed at expanding recruit training capacity while promoting inclusiveness, national integration and balanced development across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

Establishment of Army Depot in South-East Reflects FG’s Commitment to National Unity, Security and inclusiveness– COAS

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Troops, CJTF Arrest Suspected ISWAP Informant Accused of Identifying Kidnap Targets in Borno

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3 hours ago

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July 9, 2026

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Troops, CJTF Arrest Suspected ISWAP Informant Accused of Identifying Kidnap Targets in Borno

By Zagazola Makama

Operatives of the Military Intelligence Brigade (MIB) under Sector 3 of Operation HADIN KAI, working in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), have arrested a suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) informant in Monguno Local Government Area of Borno State.

Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the suspect, identified as Isa Janyu, 30, was tracked and apprehended at about 7:20 p.m. on July 4 during a targeted intelligence-led operation at Kasuwan Shanu in Monguno town.

According to the sources, items recovered from the suspect included a Tecno mobile phone, a knife, a comb, a mirror, and ₦10,000 in cash.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect is a native of Arianna Mai Massallachi Village in Kukawa Local Government Area and allegedly specialised in identifying wealthy residents for ISWAP elements to facilitate kidnapping operations for ransom.

The suspect is currently in the custody of the Headquarters Sector 3 Military Intelligence Brigade for further investigation and other necessary actions.

Military sources said the arrest was part of ongoing intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling terrorist support networks and disrupting the activities of informants providing critical information to insurgent groups in the North-East.

They added that although the general security situation across the theatre remains relatively calm, it is still unpredictable, with troops maintaining a high level of operational readiness and sustained offensive pressure against terrorist elements.

Troops, CJTF Arrest Suspected ISWAP Informant Accused of Identifying Kidnap Targets in Borno

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FG Moves to Stem Human Trafficking, Irregular Migration as Over 1,000 Nigerians Return from Crisis Routes

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19 hours ago

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July 8, 2026

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FG Moves to Stem Human Trafficking, Irregular Migration as Over 1,000 Nigerians Return from Crisis Routes

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Government on Tuesday unveiled a renewed strategy to curb irregular migration and dismantle human trafficking networks, warning that worsening economic hardship and the growing use of digital platforms by traffickers are exposing more Nigerians, particularly women and young people, to exploitation across Africa, the Middle East and Europe.

The renewed commitment came as the government and its international partners marked the fifth anniversary of the Comprehensive Protection, Reintegration and Assistance to Migrants and Communities (COMPASS) Programme, revealing that more than 1,000 stranded Nigerians have voluntarily returned from countries including Libya, Lebanon, Morocco, Mali, Egypt, India and the United Arab Emirates, while over 900 vulnerable returnees have received psychosocial care, healthcare and livelihood support to rebuild their lives.

Stakeholders warned that trafficking syndicates are becoming increasingly sophisticated, exploiting technology, poverty and unemployment to lure desperate Nigerians into dangerous migration routes where many end up trapped in forced labour, sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse.

Speaking at the anniversary event, the Chief of Mission of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) in Nigeria, Sharon Dimanche, said migration itself was not the problem but the absence of safe and legal pathways.

She said: “Migration is not the problem. The challenge is ensuring that migration is safe, orderly and regular, while protecting the dignity of every migrant.”

Dimanche said the COMPASS Programme had significantly strengthened Nigeria’s migration governance architecture by improving policies and institutional coordination while placing the protection of migrants at the centre of migration management.

Highlighting the programme’s impact, she recounted the story of “Joy”, a Nigerian woman trafficked abroad and subjected to severe exploitation before returning home traumatised.

According to her, through IOM’s psychosocial support and reintegration programme, Joy rebuilt her life, established a fashion business and now employs several young women.

“Joy is no longer defined by what happened to her. She is defined by what she has become,” Dimanche said, describing the story as evidence that effective reintegration can transform survivors into productive members of society.

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro. reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting returning migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons and vulnerable communities.

He said the government’s “One Humanitarian, One Poverty Reduction” framework under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda was designed to integrate humanitarian assistance with long-term poverty reduction.

“Migration, when properly managed, presents opportunities for national development. We will continue to strengthen institutions, expand livelihood opportunities and ensure that returning migrants are empowered to rebuild their lives with dignity.”

The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who was represented at the event, by the Director and Special Adviser Administration, Mrs. Erimfolami Ola, warned that women and children continue to bear the greatest burden of irregular migration and human trafficking.

According to her representative, the ministry has worked closely with partners under the COMPASS Programme to facilitate the voluntary return of over 1,000 stranded Nigerians while strengthening institutional responses to trafficking and forced displacement.

She stressed that interventions in Edo State had demonstrated that addressing poverty and unemployment significantly reduces the factors driving irregular migration.

Representing the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, represented by the the Head of Youth Migration and Climate Action Resilience, pecial Adviser (Administration), Adedoyin Oyekan, said creating sustainable opportunities for young Nigerians remains one of the most effective responses to irregular migration.

The ministry pledged to deepen collaboration with IOM and development partners in expanding entrepreneurship, skills acquisition, innovation and employment programmes aimed at discouraging dangerous migration.

Also speaking, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Nigeria, Bengt van Loosdrecht, announced plans for a football-based youth initiative that would equip young Nigerians with coaching and life skills while educating communities about the dangers of irregular migration.

He said the programme would empower participants to become community ambassadors for safe migration.

According to the ambassador, “Migration is fundamentally a human issue. Through COMPASS, we are investing not only in stronger institutions but also in protecting people, supporting survivors and preventing others from falling into the hands of traffickers.”

Van Loosdrecht explained that the Netherlands established the COMPASS Programme to consolidate migration support into a coordinated framework capable of providing survivor care, mental health services, institutional strengthening and protection for vulnerable migrants.

Also addressing the gathering, the Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Binta Bello, described the COMPASS Programme as one of Nigeria’s most strategic partnerships in the fight against human trafficking.

She said the initiative had strengthened the agency’s capacity to investigate and prosecute trafficking cases through specialised training for investigators and prosecutors while improving support for victims.

Warning that trafficking networks continue to evolve, Bello said: “Traffickers are adapting to technology, exploiting economic hardship and taking advantage of the aspirations of vulnerable young Nigerians. We must therefore strengthen partnerships among government, international organisations, civil society and communities to stay ahead of these criminal networks.”

The renewed commitment comes amid persistent concerns over the thousands of Nigerians who, in recent years, have embarked on perilous journeys across the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea in search of better economic opportunities. Many have perished, while others have been rescued from detention camps, trafficking rings and exploitative labour conditions abroad.

Stakeholders at the event agreed that while stronger law enforcement remains essential, tackling poverty, unemployment and social vulnerability is critical to addressing the root causes of irregular migration and sustaining Nigeria’s fight against human trafficking.

FG Moves to Stem Human Trafficking, Irregular Migration as Over 1,000 Nigerians Return from Crisis Routes

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