Vice President Kashim Shettima stated that Nigeria's shift to clean and renewable energy solutions is continuing under the Bola Tinubu administration.
The Vice President made this statement at the Aso Rock Villa while the joint venture agreement for the establishment of the Shiroro Generating Company was being signed.
Stanley Nkwocha, the Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Communications, revealed this in a statement titled, 'NSIA, NSP sign agreement for Shiroro Solar Generating Company.'
He commented that the event is a significant milestone and will support the country’s energy transition journey.
The Vice President noted that the Federal Government of Nigeria, under President Bola Tinubu, is dedicated to supporting initiatives that drive economic growth, enhance energy security, and protect the environment.
The Shiroro Generating Company is a joint venture project between the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority and North-South Power, investing in a pioneer 20MW solar-hydro hybrid project in Shiroro, Niger State.
The 20MW Pilot Project (Phase 1a) is located within NSP’s existing 600MW Shiroro Hydroelectric Power Plant concession area in Shiroro, Niger State, as part of a larger 300MW solar programme.
Shettima emphasized that Tuesday’s agreement is crucial to the nation’s sustained growth and development.
He pointed out that the government has resolved to diversify Nigeria’s energy sources, reduce its carbon footprints, and ensure a more sustainable future.
He described this project as the first of its kind in hybridizing solar and hydro power, and believes it signals the beginning of more such projects.
Shettima added that the project will attract further investments in the space by developing business and financial models for such projects.
The Vice President also praised the NSIA for the project, stating that strategic partnerships like this will create opportunities for economic growth and technological advancement while addressing the need for clean and accessible energy.
He stated that this project will catalyze the realization of other hydro-solar projects and serve as a test case for the deployment of solar energy onto the national grid.
He then urged all relevant stakeholders in the project to collaborate effectively to ensure the timely delivery and operation of the project.
Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, said the initiative aligns with the critical priorities of his Ministry in terms of increasing energy output and diversifying into renewable energy.
Adelabu explained that the project is expected to bring in more money and use the plentiful renewable energy resources in the country.
On his side, MD/CEO of NSIA, Mr Aminu Umar-Sadiq, said the partnership “will deepen Nigeria’s clean energy portfolio, create jobs, and re-affirm our dedication to energy efficient solutions as a lever for socio-economic development. It also shows NSIA’s role as a catalyst for positive change, guiding Nigeria towards a more sustainable future.”
Similarly, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of North South Power Company Limited, Olubunmi Peters, confirmed the company’s commitment to renewable energy solutions by stating its strategic intent to start this Solar-Hydro Hybridisation Project.
He described the project as “evidence of our continued focus on renewable energy as a fundamental part of economic growth,” adding, “Through this project, we have further confirmed our primary duty to uphold the highest standards of environmental and social responsibility, showing innovation and market leadership.”
Officials from the NSIA, North-South Power and other stakeholders in the power sector also witnessed the signing ceremony.