Nigeria’s energy crisis, with 45% of the population lacking access to the national grid and over 50% facing energy poverty, can be addressed through renewable energy, particularly green hydrogen, according to Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Environment. Speaking at the International Hydrogen Summit, Salako emphasized that green hydrogen, produced via electrolysis powered by renewable sources like solar and wind, is a carbon-neutral energy solution that can transform Nigeria’s power sector and contribute to global decarbonization efforts. 

Nigeria has abundant renewable energy resources, including solar power, which provides an average of 11 hours of sunlight daily, offering significant potential for green hydrogen production. With estimates suggesting the country’s solar power capacity is around 88.7GW, along with other renewable energy sources such as wind and hydro, Nigeria can produce green hydrogen for both domestic use and export. 

Salako highlighted Nigeria’s participation in the Green Hydrogen Alliance, a coalition committed to advancing green hydrogen technologies. As part of this alliance, Nigeria is leveraging partnerships with countries like Germany to conduct studies and explore hydrogen’s application in key sectors such as transportation and power generation. Projects like the H2Uppp Program, supported by the German government, have helped identify strategic locations for hydrogen production. 

Green hydrogen is integral to Nigeria’s climate goals, including its commitment to the Paris Agreement and reducing carbon emissions by 20% by 2030. By advancing green hydrogen initiatives, Nigeria aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and improving environmental and public health conditions. This shift positions Nigeria as a leader in renewable energy and green technology adoption. 

Sources:  

https://thewhistler.ng/nigeria-can-solve-power-sector-crisis-with-renewable-energy-minister/ 

https://www.arise.tv/decentralisation-of-nigerias-power-sector-sparks-concerns-over-tariff-infrastructure-shortfalls/ 

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1364032123006512 

https://fmino.gov.ng/the-power-sector-crisis-jinx-will-be-broken-in-this-administration-says-adelabu/