Nigeria’s solar industry is growing, but much of what powers that growth still comes from outside the country.

That reality was at the centre of the Kano Solar Dialogue, hosted by the Centre for Renewable Energy and Sustainability Transition at Bayero University, Kano, where relevant stakeholders discussed Nigeria’s proposed solar panel import ban and what it could mean for the country’s renewable energy future.

Nigeria already has a growing market for solar, but the country remains heavily dependent on imported equipment. The dialogue highlighted that more than 90% of solar equipment currently comes from outside the country, while Nigeria imported an estimated ₦242.68 billion worth of solar panels in the first half of 2025 alone. For stakeholders at the dialogue, these figures also represent an opportunity to create jobs, develop technical skills and retain more value within the Nigerian economy. But building a local industry will not happen simply by restricting imports.

Participants pointed to gaps in financing, infrastructure, research and development, certification, skills and access to markets. Nigeria’s existing capacity is also largely focused on assembly, while full solar manufacturing requires capabilities further along the value chain. An immediate restriction on imported solar components could push prices upward at a time when many households and businesses are already turning to solar because of unreliable and expensive electricity. 

This made the call for a phased approach one of the strongest points emerging from the discussions. Rather than choosing between local manufacturing and energy access, participants explored how both could be developed together through financing incentives, infrastructure, skills development, quality standards, research partnerships and clear implementation timelines. The challenge, participants noted, is helping these ideas move from prototypes to products that can compete in the market. 

By the close of the dialogue, there was broad agreement around the need for local manufacturing to be strengthened, but not rushed. Stakeholders called for affordable energy access to remain central, alongside stronger financing, infrastructure, certification and continuous engagement between government, industry and academia. 

The question now is not simply whether Nigeria can make more of its own solar technology. It is how to build an industry that creates Nigerian jobs and expertise while ensuring that the transition to clean energy remains accessible to the people and businesses who need it.