Light up Power State

  Addressing his media team, the Honourable Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Niger State, Hon. Suleiman Umar, explained why he has always emphasized renewable clean energy and sustainable development for Nigerlites. “This is not just about electricity. It is about jobs, industry and securing the future of our state and our country,” he said. In 2025 alone, Nigeria spent over ₦400 billion importing solar technologies. In first half of 2026, that figure had already exceeded ₦200 billion. “These are not just import figures. They represent factories that were never built in Nigeria, jobs that were never created for our people, and value that left our economy. If we keep depending on imports, we are growing other economies with our money,” he said. The scale of the energy challenge is also massive. Over 600 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa still lack access to clean energy. To close that gap by 2035, the continent needs an estimated $15 billion annually. Africa now has o...

The maiden Solar & Storage Live Nigeria Conference held in Lagos yesterday brought together policymakers, investors, manufacturers, technology providers and renewable energy developers to chart a new course for Nigeria’s clean energy future. The event has been described as the largest renewable energy gathering in Nigeria this year. The Honourable Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Niger State, Hon. Suleiman Umar, has welcomed the conference as a major success for renewable energy deployment across Nigeria and Africa, and a step toward a sustainable future for Nigerians. “The gathering shows that Nigeria is serious about clean energy. It connects us to global investment, technology and partnerships that can change how we power our homes, farms and businesses. For Africa, this is progress. For Nigeria, this is the future,” he said. Hon. Suleiman Umar further stressed that Nigerlites must not be left behind in the renewable energy solutions and businesses that are trending ...

Every town glowing. Every farm working after sunset. Every clinic saving lives with steady power. Every small business growing without fear of blackout.  That is where we are headed. Under the leadership of Hon. Suleiman Umar, the Ministry of Power and Renewable Energy has spent the last few months laying the foundation for that future. The focus is clear: deliver reliable, clean and affordable electricity to every part of Niger State, and use it to drive agriculture, industry, health and education. This work is moving forward through strong partnerships with leading international organizations. The Ministry is collaborating with the Islamic Development Bank to advance large-scale solar power that will strengthen supply across the state capital and its environs, while creating jobs and supporting industries. At the same time, work with the World Bank is focused on expanding access and building sustainable energy systems that can serve homes, schools and businesses for the long term...

The Honourable Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Niger State, Hon. Suleiman Umar, has called on investors, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders in Niger State to urgently invest and key into renewable energy opportunities as the sector records major growth across Nigeria and Africa. Hon. Umar noted that eight Nigerian companies have just secured part of a $1.5 million grant under the Productive Use Financing Facility (PUFF) to expand solar-powered appliances for farmers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. The initiative, supported by CLASP and the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), is targeting the deployment of 3,800 productive-use appliances and over 3,000 green jobs. According to him, technologies such as solar-powered water pumps, refrigeration systems, milling equipment, and other clean energy solutions are already transforming businesses in other states and across Africa.   “Organisations across Nigeria are already moving far ahead with renewab...

The Honourable Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Niger State, Hon. Suleiman Umar, has congratulated the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) for its landmark collaboration with the United Nations on the Africa Minigrids Programme, Nigeria pilot project. Hon. Umar described the partnership as "another important welcome development to Nigeria and across Africa", noting that it aligns directly with the energy access and industrialization goals of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Renewed Hope Agenda. He specifically commended the leadership of the REA Managing Director, Dr. Abba Aliyu and the entire REA team, saying their commitment and strategic direction have positioned Nigeria as a global market for sustainable development and growth in renewable energy solutions. According to the Commissioner, the UN-Nigeria collaboration on mini-grid solutions launched in Abuja is a critical step toward bridging Nigeria’s electricity access gap, driving industrialization, creating jo...

This week in Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, made it clear that renewable energy is no longer an alternative. “It is an integral part of our national power architecture,” he said at the launch of the Africa Minigrids Programme’s Nigeria pilot project. The event was also attended by representatives of the United Nations and Managing Director of REA.  Speaking at the event, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, said access to sustainable energy is essential to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. He emphasized that energy is more than electricity, “it powers hospitals, schools, farms and businesses”. Mr. Fall noted that “energy creates jobs, drives economic growth and improves lives. Without sustainable energy, sustainable development remains out of reach”. He added that the United Nations will continue to partner with the Government, the Rural Electrification Agency, development partne...

For decades, Niger State powered the whole nation. Our hydro stations gave light to every corner of Nigeria, while many of our own communities waited in darkness. That era is over. Under Farmer Governor Umaru Bago, Niger is now a true power state for its own people. And Honourable Suleiman Umar is the man turning that promise into poles, panels and power. Sulaiman Umar's journey from Works and Infrastructural Development to Power was not by chance. Farmer Governor Bago placed him where infrastructure meets impact. Because a road may open a place, but only light can grow it. That is the spirit of the New Niger Agenda. Under Hon. Suleiman Umar, the Ministry has become a hub for real partnerships. Not one project. A full pipeline. Together with REA, the Ministry is taking power where it has been missing for years. Mini-grids and solar systems are reaching rural communities and agro-clusters. So the New Niger Agenda is felt beyond the cities. The Ministry is also working with Worl...

  Niger State has taken a major step to lead Nigeria’s renewable transition after the Federal Executive Council approved a $160 million financing package for the Niger State Solar Energy Development Project. The package consists of $150 million from the Islamic Development Bank and $10 million counterpart funding from the Niger State Government. At the center of the project is the development of a 100-megawatt solar plant that will expand electricity access, improve reliability, and diversify the country’s energy mix through clean power. Farmer Governor Umaru Bago said the approval shows Niger State’s capacity to attract and manage large-scale investment. “This is more than funding. It is a vote of confidence in what we are building here. The 100MW plant will bring light to rural communities, support our industries, and create new opportunities across the state,” he said. The project follows months of preparation between the state government and the Islamic Development Bank. A few ...

  Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Honourable Suleiman Umar, has urged Nigerlites, investors and stakeholders to take advantage of the Federal Government’s renewed push for solar and local manufacturing. The call follows the FG’s commissioning of a 200-kilowatt solar PV system at SON’s Lagos lab, and the new NASENI–REA MoU to produce and deploy solar technologies locally under the “Nigeria First Policy.” The Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, said the move will expand electricity access, strengthen grid reliability, attract private investment and grow Nigeria’s solar value chain. “Niger State is already one of the leading states in the sustainable development of solar,” Hon. Suleiman Umar said. “With FG reforms on standards, local content and manufacturing, the timing is right. Every government initiative now is an advantage for every Nigerlite to embrace.” He noted that REAN and SON have also strengthened their partnership to curb fake and substandard solar products. Wit...

Hon. Suleiman Umar, Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Niger State, has commended the strengthened collaboration between the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria, REAN, and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, SON, to tackle the influx of fake and substandard renewable energy products. The Commissioner described the move as “well deserved” and a timely reinforcement of efforts he called for just last week. During stakeholder engagements, Hon. Suleiman Umar stressed the need for strict enforcement and joint action by NERC, SON, NEMSA, REA and the Nigeria Customs Service to stop counterfeit solar components from entering the market. He emphasized that strict quality assurance and effective oversight are critical to ensure renewable energy services are delivered with seriousness and effectiveness across the sector. “I didn’t expect this collaboration would come so soon to strengthen policy,” the Commissioner noted. “But this development shows that Nigeria’s renewable energy...

Hon. Suleiman Umar, Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Niger State, has reaffirmed his commitment to youth empowerment with the presentation of a pensionable employment letter to Miss Aisha Abdulkadir. The appointment letter was presented on behalf of the Commissioner by his Special Technical Assistant, A.B. Shettima.  The presentation was administered by the Bida LGA party leadership, led by Ibrahim Umar, alongside Umar Majigi B Ward Chairman. Also present at the ceremony were Hamza Abubakar, Hon. Musa Shettima, the parents of the beneficiary and other well wishers. Miss Aisha Abdulkadir, granddaughter of the Wali’s family residing opposite Hajiya LoLo’s house in Bida, expressed appreciation for the opportunity. The appointment reflects Hon. Suleiman Umar’s pledge to secure meaningful, pensionable jobs for Niger youth who excel academically and demonstrate discipline in their communities, and to ensure such opportunities reach deserving households in his constituency and...

  Hon. Suleiman Umar, Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, says the 500-hectare solar farm at Diko, Gurara LGA, adds new strength to Farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago’s economic transformation agenda. Hon. Suleiman Umar expressed delight at the Farmer Governor’s decisive action in handing over land to Abuja Steel Mills Ltd. “This is leadership in action,” he said. “Seeing Farmer Governor Umaru Bago personally encourage investors into Niger State, create jobs, and put our state on the national map is truly inspiring. He is making Niger State proud and turning the New Niger vision into reality.” He noted that the solar farm and industrial park will reshape the state’s industrial landscape, expand opportunities, and position Niger State as a leading destination for sustainable investment. With the state government set to gazette 200,000 hectares from Diko to Tafa for industries, Hon. Suleiman Umar said the state is ready to leverage the AKK gas pipeline and vast land for ind...

  Hon. Suleiman Umar, Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Niger State, says Nigerlites must prepare now to take full advantage of the opportunities opening under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Farmer Governor Umaru Bago’s New Niger Agenda. “Niger State is no longer watching from the sidelines,” Hon. Suleiman Umar stated. “Under the New Niger Agenda, we have aligned with Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda to deliver energy security, jobs, and climate resilience. Today, international institutions across the world have recognised Niger State in renewable energy. Our solar roadmap is being studied because Niger State now leads and is recognised in global growth in energy markets.” He cited the US$150 million approval by the Islamic Development Bank, IsDB. for the Niger State Solar Energy Development Project as proof of global confidence. With investors and stakeholders already showing interest, he said the next phase must involve youths and communities at the...

  Hon. Suleiman Umar, Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Niger State, says the US$150 million approval by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) is a proof that the world is taking Niger State’s energy vision seriously. The IsDB Board approved the facility for the Niger State Solar Energy Development Project to expand clean electricity generation, improve power reliability, diversify the energy mix and support climate mitigation efforts across the state. “This is not just funding. It is a statement,” Hon. Suleiman Umar said. “When a global institution like IsDB commits $150 million to Niger State, it means they believe in our direction under the New Niger Agenda of Farmer Governor Umaru Bago. They see what we see: that the future of power is here and it is solar.” The Commissioner noted that Niger State is blessed with one of the highest solar irradiation levels in Nigeria, yet years of over-reliance on the national grid and diesel/petrol generators have kept homes and busin...

As Niger State faces repeated outages this rainy season, Hon. Suleiman Umar, Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, says the lesson is clear: energy security cannot be left to chance. He is calling on Nigerlites to embrace renewable energy as the most reliable and economically sound path forward under Farmer Governor Umaru Bago’s New Niger Agenda. Speaking on Nigeria’s energy direction, he noted that the country is targeting 209,000 megawatts of generation by 2050, with solar leading the drive. Fifty-three large-scale solar projects worth $11 billion are underway nationwide, while the Rural Electrification Agency is deploying over 1,300 solar mini-grids and off-grid systems backed by $750 million in public funding. More than 1,000 mini-grids are already powering communities and Nigeria added 803MW of solar capacity in 2025 alone. “Nigeria is repositioning renewable energy as the most economically viable alternative for electricity,” the Commissioner said. “With renewables now at ...

Hon. Suleiman Umar, Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy of Niger State, has welcomed the strengthened collaboration between the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN) and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), saying it sets the right tone for Nigeria’s energy transition. Speaking on the outcome of the high-level stakeholder engagement in Abuja, the Commissioner said the conference’s focus on improving regulatory frameworks, investor confidence, and enforcement addresses the exact gaps slowing renewable energy deployment nationwide.  “Stronger policy coordination and institutional alignment are what will move us from plans to power,” Hon. Suleiman Umar stated. “Niger State, under the leadership of Farmer Governor Umaru Bago is fully aligned with the reforms under the Electricity Act 2023 and the expansion of mini-grid capacity thresholds. These policies create room for private investment and faster service delivery at the subnational level.” He noted...

  Hope has returned to Darachita, Bangaie, Low Cost, Kobo Area, FMC Quarters, Polytechnic Layout, and Cabs Layout. After days of darkness and tension over the planned Saturday 6th June protest that was shelved, residents are now smiling again. The reason is simple: work has started. Hon. Suleiman Umar, Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy of Niger State, has been working hourly, pushing day and night to make sure Barrack Feeders get attention. And he has delivered, even faster than expected. The big turning point came when AEDC materials finally arrived in Bida. No long waiting, no excuses. The moment the poles, cables, and repair equipment landed, technicians moved straight to the affected points. From Darachita to Cabs Layout, teams have been cutting, replacing, and reconnecting under the supervision of community leaders and the Commissioner’s team. For many residents, seeing the engineers on site with materials in hand was proof that their voices were heard and their comm...

“Let’s Light Up Our Power State Together” _ A message from Hon. Suleiman Umar, Honourable Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, to all Nigerlites _ My people of Niger State, let me talk to you like one brother to another. These past weeks, many of us have been asking the same question: “Why is light going on and off like this?” Some communities have been in darkness for days. Some villages only see light at midnight. And I understand the frustration. You run businesses, your children read by candlelight, food spoils in freezers. It’s hard. But let me share what’s really happening on the ground, so we can understand each other better. The raining season is testing our wires and poles: Right now, wind and rainstorms are hitting Niger State and beyond almost every day and night. In places like Bosso, Mokwa, Kontagora, Bida and many hidden corners of our 25 LGAs, we have old cables and wooden poles that have been standing for 15, 20 years. Water soaks them, wind shakes them, ...

Under the leadership of Farmer Governor Umaru Bago, Niger State is pursuing a clear and deliberate vision for energy: reliable, sustainable, and owned by the people it serves. At the center of that effort is the Honorable Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Suleiman Umar, whose approach to leadership has set a different tone for the sector. Hon. Suleiman Umar leads with calmness, clarity, and respect for the people of Niger State. His focus is not on quick promises, but on practical steps that will endure. He has consistently emphasized partnership between government, investors, and communities, arguing that power projects only last when the people they serve feel a sense of ownership. It is this belief that is shaping the ministry’s push for community co-owned mini-grids, private sector collaboration, and alignment with federal and international partners. For Nigerlites watching closely, the commissioner’s message is one of assurance. He has made clear that the New Niger Agen...

_Together We Shall Light Up Power State._ That’s the rallying call from Honourable Suleiman Umar, Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy in Niger State, and it captures the heart of the New Niger Agenda under Farmer Governor Umaru Bago. The plan is clear and deliberate: government leads the way, but the people of Niger State build, own, and sustain the energy solutions that will power homes, farms, and businesses for years to come.   At the center of this vision is a shift in ownership. Hon. Suleiman Umar is urging Nigerlite investors to partner with community groups to co-own and operate mini-grids, because projects only last when the people they serve feel responsible for them. “With our people, Niger State will not just use solar — we’ll own it,” he said. The ministry is backing this with ongoing projects from the Rural Electrification Agency, the Islamic Development Bank, ECOWAS, and the World Bank. Once handed over, these projects are expected to move the state from ...