In a bold move to escape Nigeria's persistent electricity woes, a man has made a significant personal investment to secure an independent power supply. Agba Akin has completely migrated his home from the national grid to a personal solar energy system, a transition that cost him a substantial sum of money.
A N8 Million Investment for Constant Power
Agba Akin disclosed that he spent a total of N8 million to install the solar power system at his residence. He shared photos of the setup online, explaining that he acquired his first solar unit back in 2023. Akin described the decision to go fully solar as the best he has ever made, finally freeing himself from dependence on the frequently collapsing national grid.
In a post that captured his relief and defiance, Akin stated: "I have just protected myself with 8.8m and you can collapse all you want in 2026. I’m no longer on you." His message highlights the frustration shared by many Nigerians who endure unreliable electricity from the national network.
Public Reactions: Praise, Skepticism, and Political Commentary
The announcement sparked a wide range of reactions from social media users, reflecting the common national struggle with power supply.
Some users celebrated Akin's initiative. @JezebelReborn shared a similar success story, having spent nearly N2 million on lithium batteries that provide uninterrupted power, boasting, "I have not used NEPA or Generator in a year now. They can collapse for all I care." Another user, @ScouserNigerian, called solar installation the "best investment I made this year."
However, others expressed skepticism or highlighted the broader context. User @KepoAlawode cautioned that one cannot fully escape the national power company, suggesting that even a few hours of grid supply can be useful. @reckon_iam predicted a return to the grid within two weeks, while @SeyiGlobal humorously noted that at this rate, "by 2026 the national grid go dey beg people like you to come back."
The discussion also took a political turn, with @Ezeifeka_Obinna linking the move to current government policies: "Tinubu made electricity tariff unbelievably expensive now millions of people can’t afford to pay for steady electricity supply."
The Rising Trend of Solar Adoption in Nigeria
Akin's story is not an isolated case. It underscores a growing trend among middle and upper-class Nigerians who are turning to renewable energy solutions due to the unreliability of the national grid and the high cost of running fuel generators.
Previously, Legit.ng reported on another Nigerian who set up a solar system using eight tubular batteries and now sells power to his neighbours at N200 per kWh. This points to a potential micro-grid model emerging from individual investments.
The high initial cost of quality solar installations, often running into millions of Naira, remains a significant barrier for the average citizen. However, for those who can afford it, the promise of 24/7 electricity and independence from grid collapses is a powerful motivator, as demonstrated by Agba Akin's decisive action.
