Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its energy mix and reduce dependence on fossil fuels have positioned renewable energy as a central pillar of the nation’s energy policy. This article examines the role of law and international agreements in driving technological innovation in Nigeria's renewable energy sector. It provides an overview of the existing legal framework governing renewable energy in Nigeria, including the Electric Power Sector Reform Act, the National Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Policy, and other relevant laws and regulations. The article critically assesses the impact of these laws on technological innovation in the renewable energy sector, highlighting both the opportunities they present and the challenges they pose, including constraints on growth, development, and investment. The article also explores the impact of international ecological conferences and agreements, such as the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals, on Nigeria's renewable energy landscape. Additionally, the discussion addresses the obstacles posed by current laws and policies, notably inadequate infrastructure, limited access to financing, and regulatory uncertainty. To place Nigeria’s experience in context and identify transferable best practices, the article draws comparisons with selected jurisdictions that have successfully leveraged legal and policy frameworks to foster renewable energy innovation. The article concludes by identifying opportunities for law and policy reforms to support the growth of Nigeria's renewable energy sector, promote technological innovation, and contribute to sustainable development. The findings aim to guide legal and policy reforms that can catalyze technological advancement, attract investment, and align Nigeria’s renewable energy transition with global sustainability commitments.
Daudu et al. (2025) studied this question.