Sixteen journalists have received grants worth several millions of naira to produce investigative and impact-driven reports on solar energy adoption in Nigeria, in a move aimed at deepening public understanding of renewable energy and supporting the country’s transition to cleaner energy sources.
The initiative, launched in Abuja by Solar Power Nigeria in partnership with Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation and the Secure Energy Project, seeks to strengthen energy journalism and place the media at the centre of discussions on sustainable energy development.
The beneficiaries, drawn from print, online, television and radio organisations, emerged through a competitive selection process and will use the grants to produce reports examining opportunities and challenges associated with solar energy adoption across the country.
READ ALSO:Â Government Reaffirms Commitment To Press Freedom, Media Engagement
Speaking at the launch, a representative of Solar Power Nigeria, Joseph Ibrahim, said the programme underscored the growing recognition of the media’s role in driving awareness, influencing policy and attracting investment to the renewable energy sector.
He noted that despite increasing interest in clean energy, reporting on the sector remained underfunded, leaving many Nigerians without adequate information on policies, technologies and financing opportunities within the renewable energy ecosystem.
“The media serves as a bridge between policymakers, industry stakeholders and the public. Through this grant, we hope to encourage deeper and more impactful reporting that will promote informed discussions on Nigeria’s energy future,” Ibrahim stressed.
The selected journalists have been given four weeks to publish or broadcast original reports focusing on key issues, including energy access for underserved communities, the impact of solar solutions on households and businesses, policy implementation, financing mechanisms and emerging technological innovations.
Organisers said the initiative was designed to promote evidence-based journalism and foster informed public engagement on issues relating to energy security and sustainable development.
Nigeria continues to face persistent electricity shortages, with millions of households and businesses relying on generators and other alternative power sources. Stakeholders believe increased media attention on renewable energy solutions could stimulate investment, encourage policy reforms and expand access to affordable and sustainable electricity.
Solar Power Nigeria, GIFSEP and the Secure Energy Project expressed confidence that the Media Story Grant would improve the quality of energy reporting while contributing to national efforts to expand access to clean and reliable energy.
The organisers said the programme represents a significant step towards leveraging journalism to support Nigeria’s transition to a low-carbon and sustainable energy future.
