Promoting Sustainable Development in Nigeria through Deployment of Renewable Energy: an Analysis of the Legal Framework

Renewable energy is an important pathway to promoting sustainable development in Nigeria through improved energy access, environmental protection, energy security and economic growth. Despite Nigeria abundant renewable energy resources, their deployment remains limited by legal, regulatory, and institutional challenges. This study examines the Nigerian legal framework governing renewable energy deployment and its effectiveness in promoting sustainable development. The study adopts a doctrinal methodology, analysing relevant constitutional provisions, statutes, government policies, regulatory guidelines, international instruments, case law, textbooks, journal articles, and comparative legal materials. The findings reveal that Nigeria’s existing legal framework, particularly, the Electricity Act 2023(as amended) provides a foundation for renewable energy deployment. However, the frameworks, especially the policies remain inadequate due to fragmented policies, overlapping institutional mandates, weak enforcement mechanism, insufficient fiscal incentives, and the absence of a clear, binding renewable energy targets. The study recommends the enactment of a comprehensive renewable energy Act to harmonise existing laws and policies, establish enforceable renewable energy target, clarify institutional responsibilities, strengthen regulatory oversight, and provide appropriate financial incentives. The study concludes that effective renewable energy deployment is essential to promoting sustainable development in Nigeria and requires comprehensive legal reform, and effective implementation and enforcement.