Presidential Villa Off National Grid, Now Running on Solar – Abdullahi

The Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Mustapha Abdullahi, has stated that the Presidential Villa has been taken off the national electricity grid, with power now being supplied through solar energy.

Abdullahi explained that the decision was part of efforts to reduce the high cost of electricity and ensure a more stable power supply for the seat of government.

According to him, the move aligns with the Federal Government’s plan to transition the State House to renewable energy, following the completion of a solar mini-grid project designed to power the complex independently.

Reports indicate that the Presidential Villa, popularly known as Aso Rock, had been preparing to fully disconnect from the national grid after the solar installation was completed in late 2025 and underwent testing ahead of a full transition.

The DG noted that maintaining the Villa on conventional electricity had become financially unsustainable, with previous estimates putting the annual power bill at billions of naira, prompting the shift to solar as a long-term solution.

He added that the solar system, supported by battery storage, is expected to provide uninterrupted electricity, eliminate dependence on diesel generators, and improve efficiency within the Presidential complex.

The development has, however, sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians, with some questioning why such a solution is being implemented at the seat of power while many parts of the country continue to struggle with unreliable electricity supply.

Despite the concerns, government officials insist the transition is a strategic step towards embracing renewable energy and cutting operational costs.