Nigerian Reps Launch Probe into Renewable Energy Grants

On Tuesday, the Nigerian House of Representatives commenced an investigation into renewable energy projects and foreign grants received in the sector, part of an effort to strengthen accountability and boost Nigeria's energy security. Speaker Abba Tajudeen declared the open investigative hearing at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, aiming to assess the domiciliation of green energy projects by ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) and to evaluate the utilization of renewable energy across government institutions since 2015.

The hearing is described as a crucial parliamentary intervention designed to curb economic wastage, enhance transparency, and ensure effective implementation of the Electric Act 2023, integrating renewable energy into Nigeria's power mix. The Speaker lamented the persistent electricity challenges in the country, highlighting the heavy reliance on self-generated power and the high costs that hinder economic growth.

The 10th Assembly has established a dedicated committee for renewable energy oversight, which includes agencies such as the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority and the Nigerian Atomic Energy Commission. The committee, chaired by Afam Victor Ogen, aims to consolidate the mandates of three houses due to earlier probes into grant investments being temporarily stalled due to uncooperative attitudes from the involved MDAs.