The Federal Government has defended its decision to install a solar power grid at the Aso Rock Villa, stating that the move is part of efforts to cut down the Villa’s enormous electricity expenses and promote sustainable energy use.
Speaking at a press briefing on Friday, the Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Mustapha Abdulahi, revealed that Aso Rock Villa has been paying up to ₦47 billion annually in electricity bills—an amount he described as unsustainable. To address this, President Bola Tinubu approved ₦10 billion for the development of a solar-powered system to serve the nation’s seat of power.
Abdulahi explained that the initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s broader energy diversification agenda, aimed at reducing the cost of governance and ensuring reliable, clean energy supply. He added that the solar installation would not only guarantee steady power for the Villa but also create employment opportunities, foster innovation among Nigerian engineers, and ease pressure on the national grid.
He noted that the project reflects the government’s commitment to global green energy trends and sustainable development. According to him, international development partners have taken notice of Nigeria’s energy reforms, setting aside $5.3 billion for investment in the country’s power sector, particularly in grid expansion.
The announcement follows last year’s controversy when the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) threatened to disconnect power at the Villa and other federal offices over a ₦47.1 billion debt. In the advertorial titled “Notice of Disconnection,” AEDC stated that the Presidential Villa owed ₦923.87 million.
However, President Tinubu intervened swiftly. A statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, clarified that the actual debt was ₦342.35 million after a reconciliation of accounts with AEDC. The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, assured that the amount would be cleared within the week.
Onanuga also urged other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to resolve their outstanding electricity bills with AEDC promptly to avoid future disconnection threats.
The solar project is expected to reduce long-term power costs and serve as a model for energy sustainability in government operations.
