Nigeria’s telecom sector may soon see a major shift in how it powers its operations, as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) have launched a joint campaign to curb the industry’s heavy reliance on diesel.

The move comes as operators face over $350 million in annual diesel expenses — a cost driven by the over 40 million litres consumed monthly to keep telecom towers running.

To tackle this, the NCC–REA Collaboration Committee has been set up to promote the adoption of renewable energy across telecom infrastructure, especially in rural and off-grid locations. While full rollout details are yet to be released, the committee is expected to lead efforts in deploying solar and other alternatives, improving planning with geospatial data, and aligning funding to back the shift.

NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, said the effort aligns with national priorities, stressing the need to deliver stable power for telecom operations while reducing environmental impact. REA’s MD, Abba Aliyu, added that bridging digital and energy access could unlock development for millions without conventional infrastructure.

Some telcos have already begun testing greener power. MTN says it has saved over ₦570 million by using gas generators, while Airtel is rolling out cleaner energy at some of its sites.

The initiative supports the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope agenda and could serve as a model for broader clean energy integration across sectors.