As the global shift towards renewable energy intensifies, Chief Executive, SMEFUNDS, Dr Femi Oye has said the solar industry presents an unprecedented landscape of opportunities for young Nigerian entrepreneurs.
According to him, it not just offer a sustainable future energy supply but also significant avenues for skill development and job creation.
Oye is championing a similar trajectory for Nigeria, envisioning a future where young, innovative minds are at the forefront of the nation’s energy transition.
He continued that the burgeoning demand for reliable and clean energy solutions coupled with the ongoing challenges of grid instability,has created a fertile ground for solar-powered ventures.
He noted:’Unlike many developed nations, Nigeria’s energy deficit means that solar isn’t just an eco-friendly alternative, it’s a critical necessity for homes and businesses to thrive. This inherent demand translates into vast potential for solar panel installation, maintenance, and even the development of localised micro-grids.
The opportunities in Nigeria’s solar sector are immense,” states Femi Oye. “We have a young, dynamic population eager to learn and innovate. What’s needed is to equip them with the right skills and the entrepreneurial mindset to tap into this booming market.”
According to him, the Federal Government can take advantage of similar strategies to empower its youth. “Imagine programmes that not only teach the technical aspects of solar panel installation and repair but also nurture entrepreneurial skills, guiding young individuals to establish their own solar businesses. This approach would not only create a skilled workforce but also foster a new generation of job creators.’
He spoke on the achievements of his organisation beyond traditional solar installations. ‘’Our Kike Technologies subsidiary Kike AI” kitchen application is already making waves in Nigeria, offering a glimpse into how technology can address everyday challenges. It tells you when your cooking gas will finish, eliminating that common household headache. It also promotes a wide array of cooking recipes, adding convenience and culinary inspiration to homes.
This innovative spirit, exemplified by Kike AI, can be replicated in the solar space.”
According to him, young entrepreneurs could develop AI-powered applications that optimize solar panel efficiency in real-time, predict potential issues, and schedule maintenance, all while offering tailored advice on maximizing energy harvest. They could also create platforms where households with excess solar power can sell it to neighbours, fostering localized markets and community-based energy independence.”
Oye emphasised. “It’s about identifying a need and then using technology to provide a smart, sustainable solution.”
He noted that the journey to a solar-powered Nigeria will require concerted efforts from government, private sector, and educational institutions to provide the necessary training, financial support, and regulatory frameworks.”
