The Presidency on Tuesday evening defended the Federal Executive Council’s approval of a N10 billion solar energy project for the State House, amid public criticism over the cost and timing of the initiative.
Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga responded to concerns on his verified X handle, following media reports questioning the necessity of the project, particularly given Nigeria’s current economic challenges.
Onanuga emphasized that transitioning the State House to solar power is in line with global best practices, citing that the White House in Washington, D.C., also uses solar energy as part of its power supply. “The White House in Washington D.C. uses solar power,” Onanuga wrote, suggesting that such initiatives for high-level government facilities are not uncommon and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability.
To further support his point, Onanuga shared a video of a similar solar project implemented at the White House, explaining the reasons behind the U.S. Presidency’s choice of solar energy.
Sources indicated that the proposed solar system will provide stable electricity to the President’s residence, administrative offices, and other key buildings within the State House complex, improving energy efficiency and leading to long-term cost savings.
While some Nigerians have praised the environmental benefits of the project, others have expressed concerns about its cost, questioning whether such an expense is wise at a time when many citizens are facing economic hardship.
Nzubechukwu Eze.
