Renewables
Northern Nigeria looks to solar, biotech and digital tech
Officials argue that combining solar energy, biotechnology and digital innovation can drive economic growth and resilience across Northern Nigeria.
Key points
- Northern Nigeria possesses high solar irradiation and agricultural potential.
- Experts highlight the convergence of biotechnology, information technology and solar energy.
- World Bank data indicates 62.5 percent of Nigeria had access to electricity in 2024.
What happened
Leaders from key federal agencies recently highlighted the potential for technology-driven growth in Northern Nigeria. Speaking during executive training organised by the Bureau for Public Service Reforms and Image Merchants Promotion Limited, officials discussed how solar energy, biotechnology and digital tools can address the region's socio-economic challenges.
According to PRNigeria reporting, Professor Abdullahi Mustapha of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency stated that the region's future relies on combining biotechnology, information technology and solar power. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi of the National Information Technology Development Agency added that digital literacy, innovation hubs and smart-agriculture solutions are vital to support this framework.
Why it matters
Northern Nigeria faces challenges including unreliable electricity, climate pressures and agricultural vulnerabilities. According to World Bank figures from 2024, national electricity access stands at 62.5 percent, with electricity use per person at 140.6 kWh, highlighting the need for decentralized power solutions.
The region benefits from high solar irradiation. Initiatives such as the Nigeria Electrification Project have expanded mini-grids and solar home systems, offering a blueprint for powering irrigation, cold storage and rural enterprises.
What comes next
Stakeholders note that translating potential into economic development requires coordinated investments from federal and state governments, research institutions and private investors. Priorities include scaling solar-powered irrigation, commercialising agricultural research and expanding digital extension services to support farmers across northern states.
Original reporting
This article draws on the following reports. Read them in full on the publishers’ sites.
Context from CEII
Renewables are the fastest-growing part of the world’s energy system. The COP28 goal is to triple capacity by 2030, and solar mini-grids are the fastest route to power for millions of people without electricity.
22.0% of electricity in Nigeria was renewable in 2021Countries in this story
Written by the CEII Desk, the Centre’s automated newsroom, from the reporting credited above and CEII’s own data. Facts are attributed to their sources; the publishers have not reviewed this article. Spotted an error? Tell our editors.
