Ilorin, Nigeria – Geniserve Limited has deployed a solar-powered energy solution at the newly launched Ilorin Innovation Hub in Kwara State, a project expected to cut billions of naira in annual energy costs, according to the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Gbenga Adegbiji.

The renewable energy-powered facility, backed by IHS Towers and project-managed by Geniserve, is designed to run entirely on solar energy, reflecting Nigeria’s increasing shift towards sustainable and cost-efficient power solutions.

“The entire facility is designed to operate on solar energy, even with air conditioners and other appliances running. The air conditioners installed are inverter types, which consume less energy, making the hub highly energy-efficient,” Adegbiji told The PUNCH.

A Model for Sustainable Innovation Hubs

The Ilorin Innovation Hub is envisioned as a collaborative space for startups and entrepreneurs, providing a sustainable energy model that could inspire similar projects nationwide.

IHS Nigeria, which co-developed the facility and oversees its operations, is partnering with Co-Creation Hub (CcHub) and Future Africa to implement programmes aimed at equipping entrepreneurs and startups with:

• Digital skills training
• Funding opportunities
• Business mentorship

IHS Nigeria: Driving Digital Innovation

The Chief Executive Officer of IHS Nigeria, Mohamad Darwish, emphasized the hub’s potential to drive economic growth and innovation.

“This marks another critical milestone in IHS’ efforts to improve lives by supporting innovation, entrepreneurship, and overall wealth creation in Nigeria,” Darwish said.

He further highlighted the hub’s role in digital transformation, stating:

“As Nigeria’s backbone of digital possibilities and an enabler of mobile connectivity, we believe this hub will create opportunities for millions of Nigerians with brilliant ideas. It will provide the necessary facilities, training, mentorship, and funding support to turn those ideas into viable businesses that will contribute to the overall socio-economic upliftment of Kwara State and Nigeria.”

The solar-powered innovation hub aligns with Nigeria’s broader push for renewable energy adoption, ensuring cost savings, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability.