Economic and Environmental Benefits of Renewable Energy Transition in Nigeria

New Energy Exploitation and Application

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Economic and Environmental Benefits of Renewable Energy Transition in Nigeria

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https://doi.org/10.54963/neea.v4i2.1524
Obomejero, J., Michael, I., Omokaro, G. O., Efeni, O. S., Adeyanju, O. I., & Akpotu, E. (2025). Economic and Environmental Benefits of Renewable Energy Transition in Nigeria. New Energy Exploitation and Application, 4(2), 185–197. https://doi.org/10.54963/neea.v4i2.1524
Volume 4 Issue 2 (2025): In Progress
Copyright (c) 2025 Justice Obomejero, Ikioukenigha Michael, Godspower Oke Omokaro, Ogheneochuko Shadrack Efeni, Opelopejesu Israel Adeyanju, Efe Akpotu
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Authors

  • Justice Obomejero

    Institute of Environmental Engineering, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Moscow 117198, Russia
  • Ikioukenigha Michael

    Department of Geography and Regional Planning, Igbinedion University, Okada 302110, Nigeria
  • Godspower Oke Omokaro

    Institute of Environmental Engineering, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Moscow 117198, Russia
  • Ogheneochuko Shadrack Efeni

    Institute of Environmental Engineering, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Moscow 117198, Russia
  • Opelopejesu Israel Adeyanju

    Institute of Environmental Engineering, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Moscow 117198, Russia
  • Efe Akpotu

    Academy of Engineering, Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Moscow 117198, Russia

Received: 13 August 2025; Revised: 22 September 2025; Accepted: 25 September 2025; Published: 14 October 2025

Nigeria faces an urgent energy challenge marked by chronic electricity shortages, dependence on fossil fuels, and worsening environmental degradation. This study examines the economic and environmental benefits of transitioning to renewable energy in Nigeria, adopting a mixed-methods approach that combines a systematic literature review, policy analysis, and synthesis of empirical case studies. Findings reveal that Nigeria possesses vast potential for solar, wind, biomass, and hydropower, capable of transforming its energy landscape. Economically, the adoption of renewable energy can generate employment, stimulate industrial growth, expand rural electrification, attract investment, and stabilize public finances by reducing vulnerability to global oil price shocks. Environmentally, it can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, conserve biodiversity, promote sustainable waste management, and enhance resilience to climate variability. Case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of decentralized solar mini-grids, biomass utilization, and hybrid systems in meeting local energy needs; however, persistent barriers, including weak policy enforcement, financing gaps, and infrastructural limitations remain. The study concludes that a comprehensive framework is required, built on policy alignment, financing innovation, institutional strengthening, infrastructure development, and social inclusion. Renewable energy transition thus represents not only a climate responsibility but also a strategic pathway for Nigeria’s sustainable economic and environmental future.

Keywords:

Renewable Energy Economic Benefits Environmental Sustainability Nigeria Energy Transition

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