FG commissions one-megawatt solar plant for Head of Civil service office

8 Apr 2025

The Federal Government has commissioned a one-megawatt solar power facility to serve the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), providing a reliable alternative source of electricity to support efficient public service operations.

The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, made this known during a handover ceremony held in Abuja on Monday.

Developed by the Ministry of Power, the project is part of a wider government initiative to install solar photovoltaic systems across public buildings nationwide. It is designed to support a gradual transition towards cleaner, more sustainable energy sources in line with President Bola Tinubu’s energy reform agenda.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Power, Mr Mamman Mahmuda, described the project as a tangible reflection of the government’s dedication to enhancing energy security, reducing environmental impact, and fostering more cost-effective governance.

“By supplying essential government infrastructure with renewable energy, we are showcasing how solar technology can play a transformative role in achieving universal and sustainable electricity access,” he said.

He further noted the strategic importance of uninterrupted power supply to the HCSF office, describing it as the central hub of administrative coordination and public policy development.

“It’s well recognised that the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation is the backbone of Nigeria’s public service and a core centre for policymaking and implementation. This solar solution not only reduces dependence on the national grid but also cuts operational expenses by significantly lowering diesel consumption,” Mahmuda explained.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the Ministry of Power for what she termed a visionary and timely intervention.

She described the solar plant as evidence of a shared resolve to improve service delivery and integrate environmentally friendly energy systems into government operations.

“This development marks a crucial step forward in creating a more resilient and sustainable civil service infrastructure. Access to reliable electricity is fundamental to delivering effective governance and driving national development,” she said.

Mrs Walson-Jack added that incorporating renewable energy solutions within the civil service would encourage innovation and boost operational efficiency.

“This achievement is a testament to our collective drive to enhance the quality of public service while promoting environmentally responsible practices across the federal civil service. As the engine of national administration, the civil service must have dependable power to fulfil its responsibilities, stimulate economic progress, and serve the Nigerian people effectively.”

Also speaking at the event, Mr Ichie Omeje, Managing Director of Truetech Global Investment Services Ltd., described the project — executed in partnership with JRB Solar Investment Ltd. — as a significant contribution to the Federal Government’s broader vision for sustainable energy adoption.

He noted that the installation utilised high-grade, globally recognised equipment, and that a three-year maintenance plan had been established to ensure a smooth transition and consistent electricity supply across the facility.