The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) plans to spend N1.8 billion on power generating systems to guarantee 24/7 electricity supply at its headquarters and 36 state offices, according to details released by the Budget Office of the Federation.

This move comes as Nigeria continues to struggle with erratic electricity, prompting government agencies and institutions to explore alternative power solutions. The allocation was listed under State House expenditures, reflecting the administration’s ongoing focus on energy self-sufficiency for critical government operations.

The NIMC’s expenditure follows a similar initiative by the Presidential Villa, which received N7 billion in the 2026 budget for a solar mini-grid system, building on a N10 billion solarisation project approved in 2025. The Tinubu administration defended these projects as strategic investments in sustainability and energy efficiency, comparing the effort to the White House in Washington, D.C., which also uses solar power.

Public criticism has, however, persisted. Many Nigerians argue that such high-profile solarisation projects highlight the government’s inability to provide stable electricity for the general population, raising questions about prioritisation amid the country’s economic challenges.

Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga insisted that the projects are designed to meet global standards for important national institutions and are not a reflection of failing public electricity supply.

As Nigeria grapples with ongoing power deficits, the NIMC’s planned expenditure underscores the widening gap between electricity access for ordinary citizens and government offices.