The foundation which recently launched its flagship Distributed Energy Resources (DER) platform ; a comprehensive one-stop hub designed to empower Nigerians with the tools and knowledge needed to embrace clean energy solutions.

The DER platform provides practical resources, including a solar energy calculator, policy guidelines, financing options, and a verified directory of installers and resellers, and aligns with Nigeria’s Vision 30:30:30, which aims to generate 30,000 megawatts of electricity by 2030, with 30 percent sourced from renewable energy.

CADEF is pursuing the agenda at a time Nigeria is striving for exponential industrial growth, but persistent grid failures and the relentless surge in fuel prices have become significant challenges.

These issues have raised serious concerns for individuals and businesses, hindering their ability to realize their potential and achieve sustainable growth fully.

For instance, Nigerians were on Wednesday plunged into darkness following another collapse of the national power grid.

Statistics show that from January 2024 till November, the grid has collapsed 11 times.

Within one week in October, the grid collapsed three times with its attendant blackouts, sparking reactions from Nigerians.

Speaking during a webinar tagged: “Distributed Energy Advantage: Turning Energy Deficit into Renewable Opportunity” organised by CADEF, Professor Chiso Ndukwe-Okafor, the executive director of CADEF reemphasized that reliable electricity is a major concern for [electricity] consumers in the West African country.

According to her; “Just this year alone, we have experienced our 12th national grid failure. CADEF, a consumer rights organization, launched a new website, to educate Nigerians about DER, particularly solar energy. Many people are unfamiliar with the concept, which extends beyond familiar forms of renewable energy like bioenergy and hydropower.”

Ndukwe-Okafor explained that the DER website has highlighted the challenges faced by Nigerian businesses and households due to unreliable national grid.

“Over 70% of our businesses are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that often rely on expensive, polluting petrol generators,” she said.

DER offers a solution through solar microgrids, which can provide reliable and cost-effective energy to both rural and urban communities.

“An informed consumer is an empowered consumer. The website explores decentralization and reliable energy solutions using solar microgrids. DER allows for a scalable approach. You can invest in a system that fits your current needs and expand it as your requirements grow”, the prof emphasised.

CADEF advocates for government intervention to create a more favorable environment for DER adoption. This includes tax incentives, import duty waivers, and financing schemes. Additionally, they support net metering and feed-in tariffs that incentivize renewable energy use.

The organization also sees Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as crucial for successful microgrid projects in underserved areas.

CADEF is dedicated to providing educational resources, financing opportunities, and a network of trusted professionals to facilitate the switch to solar energy. They encourage service providers to register on their platform to ensure high-quality services.

She highlighted the importance of collaboration to drive policy change and mobilize stakeholders towards a more reliable and sustainable energy future for Nigeria.

Also speaking at the event, Alaba Abolaji Ojediran, a systems analyst and IT trainer, presented a sobering picture of the country’s electricity infrastructure.

“Nigeria’s grid, established in 1962 for a population of 46 million, is now struggling to cope with a population of 234 million,” Ojediran explained. “Since 2017, the grid has collapsed nearly 46 times, highlighting its fragility.”

Comparing Nigeria’s grid performance to other countries with similar population sizes, Ojediran noted that Nigeria has experienced significantly more grid failures to Brazil, with a comparable population.

A key factor contributing to these disparities is Nigeria’s heavy reliance on fossil fuels. “Renewable energy constitutes only about 2% of Nigeria’s energy mix,” Ojediran said. “Countries with higher renewable energy adoption, like India, tend to have fewer grid failures.”

Ojediran proposed DER as a solution to Nigeria’s power woes. DER, which includes solar panels, wind turbines, battery storage, and demand response technologies, allows for energy generation and storage closer to the point of consumption, reducing reliance on the central grid.

“Each grid collapse costs Nigeria between 4% and 7% of its GDP,” Ojediran emphasized. “By investing in grid integration and promoting DER, Nigeria can unlock substantial economic benefits.”

To achieve grid integration, Ojediran outlined several key steps including: Infrastructure upgrades, promoting DER adoption, enhanced grid management among others.

He concluded by emphasizing the importance of community engagement and policy reforms in driving the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy future for Nigeria.

Dr. Mary Adedoyin, sub-dean, Faculty of Engineering and lecturer in the Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering at University of Lagos, also highlighted the crucial role of renewable energy in driving Africa’s industrial growth.

She emphasized the need to transition from traditional, fossil-fuel-based energy sources to cleaner, renewable alternatives arguing that renewable energy, such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power, offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution to Africa’s energy challenges.

Despite the initial investment costs, Adedoyin averred that the long-term benefits of renewable energy far outweigh the upfront expenses.

She also stressed the importance of addressing infrastructure challenges and promoting policies that incentivize renewable energy adoption.

“By embracing renewable energy, Africa can unlock its full industrial potential, create a more sustainable future, and improve the quality of life for millions of people”, she stated.

Mr. Joseph Inyang, expert in the renewable energy industry, emphasized the need for a paradigm shift away from fossil fuels. He stated, “If you give someone a fish every day, they won’t learn to fish. Similarly, relying solely on fossil fuels hinders sustainable growth.”

Inyang advocated for a decentralized energy system, incorporating storage solutions, energy efficiency measures, and recycling. He also stressed the potential of artificial intelligence in optimizing renewable energy systems.

FG Should Remove Tariffs on Renewable Energy Equipment, says Prof. Chiso Ndukwe-Okafor as CADEF Unveils DER Initiative 

A key focus of his presentation was on net metering and feed-in tariffs. Inyang explained, “Net metering allows individuals and businesses to generate excess renewable energy and sell it back to the grid. Feed-in tariffs provide fixed payments for renewable energy generated, incentivizing investment in the sector.”

In summary, speakers unanimously agreed that the state of electricity in Nigeria is no secret—demand far outstrips supply, and rural areas suffer the most and beyond adoption, stakeholders must prioritize education and training to open the minds of Nigerians to maintain and manufacture renewable energy systems.

Participants also learned how Distributed Energy Resources (DER) is reshaping the energy landscape—unlocking potential, addressing challenges, and powering real-world solutions.

He made this known while delivering a keynote address on the topic “Public, Private Partnerships: Drivers of Digital Innovation in Nigeria’’ at the formal launch of the initiative by the Digital Transformation Centre (DTC) of the German International Cooperation (GIZ).

Represented by Barrister Chioma Oke-Aguguo, the Lagos Office Head of the Agency, Inuwa commended the German International Cooperation (GIZ), for the laudable initiative, noting that the idea is aimed at engaging stakeholders in the Nigerian innovation ecosystem, helping them to understand the Digital Innovation Hub concept, and generating interest from prospective entrepreneurs and innovators.

He averred that it is only through initiatives like the one proposed that the nation’s startup businesses will be able to emerge from the pandemic and grow into globally competitive companies.

The Director-General assured that as the apex regulator of the Information Technology (IT) sector in Nigeria, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) will always appreciate and identify with every initiative aimed at boosting the growth of digital innovation and entrepreneurship.

“Digital innovation hubs are the surest way to help lift Nigerians out of poverty and support the government in its economic diversification efforts, through the creation or more Innovation-Driven Enterprises (IDEs)”, Inuwa maintained.

The NITDA Boss affirmed that since 2020, the Nigerian government has invested heavily to provide the much-needed digital infrastructure, digital services and platforms, as well as digital literacy and skills for all citizens, towards transforming the country into a world-class digital economy.

“This digital transformation has enabled rapid development across the country, positively impacting virtually all sectors of the economy, which has resulted in higher performance and efficiency, creation of new digital jobs and indigenous IT innovations, and has boosted economic growth in the country with an unprecedented GDP contribution, by the ICT sector, of 18.4% in the 2nd Quarter of 2022”, the DG recalled.

As Nigeria continues its steady recovery from the COVID-19 crisis, the DG said that it is evident that the successes recorded from the rigorous implementation of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) must be sustained, adding that to achieve this, public-private partnerships (PPPs) will ultimately play a critical role in accelerating Nigeria’s digital economic transformation.

“PPPs are critical instruments for innovation in all sectors of the economy; they help governments become more inventive by creating a space outside the government structure that allows innovation to flourish.”

“They also help to inject a broader set of skills and talents, as well as a more diligent and responsive work culture into the government machinery and to create a solid foundation for innovative thinking and creativity”, the DG explained.

He further explained that according to “the World Bank, PPPs are a mechanism for the government to procure and implement public infrastructure and/or services using the resources and expertise of the private sector; Where governments are facing aging or lack of infrastructure and require more efficient services, a partnership with the private sector can help foster new solutions and bring finance.”

“PPPs combine the skills and resources of both the public and private sectors through sharing of risks and responsibilities. This enables governments to benefit from the expertise of the private sector and allows them to focus instead on policy, planning, and regulation by delegating day-to-day operations”, the Director-General stressed.

Inuwa made it known that almost every State has embraced the technological trend and provided its residents with facilities to advance their technical development, adding that many of such hubs are privately held, while others are supported by the Nigerian government through various Federal agencies and programmes meant to develop the Nigerian tech sector.

According to the DG, “the engagement of PPPs in Nigeria will require an enabling environment for dedicated public and private sector champions that address the challenges of digital infrastructure development head-on”.

“The Nigeria Public-Private Partnership Network (NPPPN) was established in 2011 through collaboration between the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Lagos State Public Private Partnership (PPP) office, and the Nigerian Infrastructure Advisory Facility (NIAF) to create a platform for all States (sub-nationals), Heads of PPP Units nationwide under the Chairmanship of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.”

The Public Private Partnership Units Consultative Forum (3PUCF) was also established in 2013 as a forum designed to provide a platform for Heads of PPP Units in Federal MDAs for knowledge and experience sharing; ensuring symmetry of effort towards institutionalizing FGN PPP programme, provision of training and educational intervention among others, and meets quarterly,’ under the Chairmanship of the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. ICRC also acts as the Secretariat”, Inuwa said.

The NITDA Boss avowed that the conceptualization, formulation, and passage of the Nigeria Startups Bill (NSB) is a unique outcome of the private and public partnership comprising all the key stakeholders from the government and private sector players.

He reiterated NITDA’s commitment towards being open to work with private sector partners that are committed to the development of digital innovation hubs in order to help further and expand the tech innovation ecosystem in Nigeria.

“The Agency will never relent in its avowed determination to continue supporting initiatives aimed at helping startups to innovate and develop more innovation-driven and globally scalable businesses”.

“Through innovations and investments, the Nigerian economy can harness digital data and new technologies, generate new content, link individuals with markets and government services, and roll out new, sustainable business models”, Inuwa advised.

He urged all relevant stakeholders in Nigeria’s digital innovation ecosystem to step up and join the organizers to develop infrastructure to help lift the country’s innovation-driven enterprises to higher levels of prosperity and economic stability.

“Digital technologies will spur innovation, efficiency, and productivity, and as a result will create mass jobs, bring about choice and opportunities for greater growth and inclusion”, Inuwa assured.

These forces are reshaping how real estate transactions are conducted, improving market transparency, and making homeownership more accessible.

Technology Disrupting the Real Estate Market

Over the last couple of years, the Nigerian real estate industry has started embracing digital transformation.

In 2022, technological advancements have become integral to simplifying processes in property management, investment, and sales. Proptech (property technology) is now at the heart of this shift, creating a more efficient and accessible real estate environment.

Platforms such as PropertyPro, Spleet, and Fibre have led the charge, offering digital solutions to previously cumbersome tasks like property searches, rentals, and even property management.

With the power of the internet, potential buyers and investors now have access to a wide range of listings, market data, and property comparisons at their fingertips.

Virtual tours and drone-powered property inspections have gained popularity, allowing prospective buyers to view properties remotely.

This trend was accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, as virtual interactions became the norm. Moreover, blockchain technology started to find applications in real estate transactions, providing greater security, transparency, and faster verification processes.

As a result, investors and homebuyers can now navigate the property market with much more ease, avoiding the opaque processes that often characterised the industry in the past.

Technology is playing a pivotal role in democratising access to real estate, particularly for younger Nigerians, who are more inclined to use these digital tools in their decision-making.

Government Policies Supporting Growth

On the policy front, the Nigerian government has taken significant steps in 2022 to improve the real estate market and reduce the housing deficit, which remains one of the country’s most pressing challenges.

One of the standout developments has been the ongoing review of the Land Use Act, a legal framework that has traditionally slowed down land acquisition processes.

The government’s efforts to streamline land title acquisition and make land registration more efficient have begun yielding results.

The simplification of land documentation has reduced bureaucratic bottlenecks, making it easier for developers to embark on projects and for individuals to acquire property.

Another critical initiative has been the push for affordable housing. In 2022, the government expanded the National Housing Fund (NHF), allowing more Nigerians to access low-interest mortgages.

Coupled with an increasing number of public-private partnerships (PPPs), these initiatives are helping to bridge the housing gap, especially in urban centers like Lagos and Abuja.

By partnering with private developers, the government is ensuring that more Nigerians have access to affordable housing, while also improving the infrastructure around residential areas.

Emerging Challenges and Opportunities

While 2022 has brought significant advancements in technology and policy, the real estate sector is not without its challenges.

Nigeria continues to face issues related to unreliable power supply, inadequate infrastructure, and a volatile economic environment.

These factors limit the pace of real estate development, particularly in rural areas and emerging markets.

Nonetheless, there is a growing interest in renewable energy and sustainable building solutions, as developers seek to address power supply challenges through solar and hybrid power systems.

The government’s ongoing investment in infrastructure, including roads and power grids, is expected to create a more conducive environment for real estate development in the coming years.

Financial technology (fintech) is also playing a key role in supporting real estate investments. Crowdfunding platforms and digital payment solutions are offering innovative ways for developers to raise capital for large projects, while Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are providing everyday Nigerians with the opportunity to invest in the property market without needing to own physical assets.

The Road Ahead for Nigerian Real Estate

As we reflect on the progress made up to 2022, it’s clear that the Nigerian real estate sector is on the verge of a significant transformation.

The integration of technology, coupled with government reforms, is creating new opportunities for investors and making the property market more accessible to Nigerians from all walks of life.

Looking ahead, the continued adoption of technology, alongside sustained policy support from the government, will be critical in driving long-term growth.

By addressing the housing deficit and leveraging innovative solutions, Nigeria’s real estate market is poised to play a key role in the country’s broader economic development.

As we move into 2023 and beyond, real estate professionals, investors, and policymakers must continue to collaborate to create a sector that is more transparent, inclusive, and efficient.

Ayodeji Fashanu has a track record of founding successful ventures like Invil Capital, Vestpro Solutions, Fayod Group, The Azaria Hotel, and Lekki Luxury Homes. He brings a wealth of experience in entrepreneurship and business leadership.

As a seasoned founder and CEO, he is dedicated to driving growth, creating value, and fostering innovation.