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By Daniel Adaji
The Federal Government, in partnership with the World Bank, has delivered a 2.5 megawatts hybrid solar power plant to the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Jaji, Kaduna State.
The Special Adviser, Strategic Communications and Media Relations to the Minister of Power, Bolaji Tunji disclosed this in a statement on Saturday.
The new facility, commissioned under the Energizing Education Programme Phase II, includes a 600-kilowatt solar photovoltaic component fully funded by the Ministry of Power.
Together, the projects are expected to slash NDA’s dependence on the national grid by half, significantly improving power supply for academic, military, and residential activities.
Major General A.K. Ibrahim, Commandant of the NDA said, “This project propels us to uphold our legacy as Nigeria’s crown jewel of military excellence. With pride, we celebrate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visionary leadership and the Federal Government’s bold strides in energy security.”
The hybrid solar plant, implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), also features nine kilometres of solar-powered streetlights, a renewable energy training centre, and upgraded electrical infrastructure to improve efficiency and security across the campus.
Over 12,000 members of the NDA community are expected to benefit from the transition to clean energy. The academy will now enjoy more reliable electricity to support its military training and academic mandates.
Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, said the project is in line with the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Powering the NDA with solar energy fortifies national assets, drives education, security, and sustainability. We’re lighting up Nigeria’s future—one institution at a time,” he said.
The REA also trained 20 female cadets in solar energy technology, a move aimed at bridging gender gaps in the renewable energy sector and empowering future leaders.
Ibrahim described the development as “a game-changer for Africa’s premier military institution,” and praised Adelabu for his unwavering support, calling the project a testament to collaborative nation-building.
This initiative also underscores the government’s strategy to leverage innovation, research, and development for national progress.
“Let us make research purposeful. Let us make development intentional. Let us make commercialization impactful,” Adelabu said at the 22nd National Council on Innovation, Science, and Technology, held shortly before the commissioning.