Members of the House of Representatives Committee on Privatisation and Commercialisation have called on the private sector to take a more active role in resolving Nigeria’s persistent energy challenges.
They highlighted the success of Bagaja Renewables’ 1MWp interconnected solar mini-grid project in Kano as a powerful example of what is possible through public-private collaboration.
Led by Chairman, Hon. Hamisu Ibrahim Chidari, the lawmakers made the call during an oversight visit to Bagaja’s state-of-the-art facility in Zawaciki, which provides clean and reliable power to underserved communities by supplementing the national grid.
“This project clearly illustrates the transformative potential of private investment in the power sector,” said Chidari. “If more companies take up this challenge, Nigeria’s energy crisis can be addressed more swiftly and sustainably.”
Chidari emphasized that Nigeria’s overreliance on the central grid is no longer tenable, especially in rural and peri-urban areas where access to electricity remains limited.
He urged both local and international investors to explore opportunities in decentralized energy solutions such as mini-grids and solar farms.
“The government cannot do it alone. We need serious, committed players in the private sector to drive innovation, efficiency, and expansion in our energy space,” he said. “Renewable energy projects like this must become the norm, not the exception.”
The Zawaciki project, developed and operated by Bagaja Renewables, is connected to the national distribution network and designed to improve grid stability and reduce power outages for businesses and households.
During the facility tour, Sadiq Zakari, Managing Director of Bagaja Renewables, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to providing scalable, clean energy solutions across the country.
“Our goal is simple — to close Nigeria’s energy access gap,” Zakari said. “We’re showing that with the right mix of investment and innovation, reliable power can reach every corner of Nigeria.”
He also highlighted Bagaja’s growing portfolio, including ongoing developments at Kura-Karfi in Kano and the Kafin Hausa project in Jigawa, both of which are aimed at supporting local industries and improving rural electrification.
The lawmakers’ visit underscores a broader policy shift toward encouraging private sector participation in Nigeria’s post-privatization power landscape — a move that experts say is essential to achieving long-term energy security.
“We’re here to show our support and to send a message: the door is open for private investors who are ready to make a difference,” Chidari added. “The time to act is now.”
