The Presidency has defended its decision to approve a N10 billion solar power project at the Presidential Villa, Aso Rock, amid growing public criticism and concerns over the administration's broader commitment to ensuring stable electricity across the country.
The solar initiative, designed to transition the Villa to renewable energy and reduce dependence on the national grid, is being executed under the Presidential Renewable Energy Initiative (PREI). According to the Presidency, the project aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable energy, emissions reduction, and cost-saving in the long term.
Speaking through Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the Tinubu administration emphasized that “this is not a vanity project” but rather a “strategic energy investment” that will set a precedent for future government buildings and reduce long-term energy costs.
Critics, however, have pointed to the N10 billion price tag as excessive, especially given President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s campaign promise to stabilize national power supply and revamp Nigeria’s failing grid. Some have questioned the optics of prioritizing energy independence for the Presidential Villa while many Nigerians continue to endure erratic electricity.
In response, the Presidency clarified that the Aso Rock solar project is part of a larger framework under the Ministry of Power to integrate renewable energy solutions nationwide. “You cannot lead a clean energy revolution without first leading by example,” Onanuga said.
The government also reaffirmed its commitment to power sector reforms, highlighting ongoing investments in transmission infrastructure, rural electrification programs, and partnerships with private-sector players aimed at increasing generation capacity.