The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, has stated that a ban on importation of solar panels will not be carried out until the country has capacity to produce more of the panels.

Speaking at a recent media briefing, the Minister said the government will expand domestic production of solar panels and components so that Nigeria becomes self-sufficient in manufacturing.

"You can't ban importation of solar panels if you do not have manufacturing capabilities in the country," he said.

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The minister added that locally manufactured panels will avoid shipping costs and import duties, and that government support will help make them affordable for Nigerians

Meanwhile, the Solar Power Nigeria Campaign in partnership with Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP) commended the minister for the commitment to grow Nigeria's solar manufacturing capacity before restricting the importation of solar panels.

A statement by Co-Convener Solar Power Nigeria and Executive Director GIFSEP, Dr Michael Terungwa David, called the decision sound and forward-looking.

He said it safeguards energy access for households, businesses and public institutions, and it lays a firm foundation for local manufacturing, jobs and energy self-sufficiency.

"We commend the minister for listening to stakeholders and choosing a path that puts Nigerians first. Building manufacturing capacity before closing the door to imports is the right sequence. It keeps solar affordable for the millions who depend on it, while giving local industry the time and support it needs to grow. The focus on quality standards and on training artisans through the Barefoot Renewable Energy College tackles the real problems in the sector: substandard products and poor installation. This is what a just and inclusive energy transition looks like," he stated.

He added that the Solar Power Nigeria partners remain ready to work with the Ministry, the Energy Commission of Nigeria and other stakeholders to support this transition through research, public engagement and stakeholder dialogue.