Expert urges investment in solar research to boost power supply

President of the Solar Energy Society of Nigeria, Dr. Sunny Akpoyibo and others. Photo: SESN

The President of the Solar Energy Society of Nigeria, Dr. Sunny Akpoyibo, has called for increased investment in youth development, innovation and research to strengthen Nigeria’s energy security and accelerate the country’s transition to renewable energy. Akpoyibo revealed that addressing Nigeria’s growing energy needs requires stronger collaboration among stakeholders, institutional reforms and strategic investments in renewable energy technologies. This was disclosed in a statement signed by Akpoyibo on Friday. According to the statement, he made the call on Thursday in Abuja during the inauguration of the Society’s Board of Trustees, Patrons and Sub-Committee Chairpersons, alongside the conferment of Fellowship Awards at the Prof. I. H. Umar Conference Hall. He stressed that equipping young Nigerians with technical skills and opportunities in the solar energy sector would not only strengthen the industry but also create jobs and support national development. “We will prioritise youth empowerment through capacity-building programmes, research initiatives and skills development in solar energy technologies, contributing to job creation and national development,” he said. President of the Solar Energy Society of Nigeria, Dr. Sunny Akpoyibo and others. Photo: SESN Akpoyibo described the inauguration ceremony as a significant milestone in the Society’s history, noting that the recognition of patrons, inauguration of committees and conferment of fellowships would enhance SESN’s capacity to advance renewable energy development across the country. He charged members of the newly inaugurated Board of Trustees to provide strategic leadership and safeguard the Society’s long-term vision. “Your role is to provide strategic oversight, preserve our institutional integrity and guide the long-term vision of the Solar Energy Society of Nigeria,” he said. The SESN president also tasked sub-committee chairpersons with driving innovation, research, advocacy and member engagement, describing the committees as the operational backbone of the Society. Related News Norway urges Nigerian businesses to swap diesel generators for solar power Households embrace microinsurance as inflation bites harder Rivers school tops 2026 NLNG science contest Speaking on the fellowship awards, Akpoyibo said the honour recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions to renewable energy development and the advancement of the Society. “The Fellowship of the Solar Energy Society of Nigeri