By Shafi’u Yahaya
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of UMTK Solar Nigeria Limited, Engr. Umar Muhammad Tahir, has said that his dream of becoming an entrepreneur began long before he graduated from university, a vision that has today grown into one of Nigeria’s emerging solar energy companies.
Speaking with our correspondent, Engr. Tahir, a graduate of Electrical Engineering from Bayero University, Kano (BUK), said he deliberately chose entrepreneurship over waiting for a government white-collar job.
“Even before I graduated from the university, I had already made up my mind to establish my own enterprise instead of depending on government employment. Alhamdulillah, that dream has become a reality through UMTK Solar Nigeria Limited,” he said.
According to him, a major turning point came in 2015 when he attended an intensive solar energy training programme in Lagos.
“We spent several days in Lagos receiving practical training on solar energy technology.
“The knowledge and experience we gained inspired me to establish UMTK Solar Nigeria Limited immediately after I returned,” he stated.
He described the journey of building the company as challenging but rewarding, noting that determination, hard work and faith in God enabled him to overcome the obstacles.
Today, UMTK Solar Nigeria Limited has grown into a significant employer, with more than 40 permanent staff on its monthly payroll.
In addition, the company engages at least 150 ad hoc workers every month, providing employment opportunities for many Nigerian youths.
Beyond job creation, the company is committed to developing local capacity by training young people in solar installation, maintenance and related technical services, equipping them with practical skills for self-employment and sustainable livelihoods.
Engr. Tahir expressed gratitude to God for the success of the company and said UMTK Solar is complementing government efforts to tackle unemployment.
“I thank Almighty Allah for giving me the opportunity to contribute to national development. By creating jobs and empowering young people with skills, we are helping to reduce unemployment, which is one of the major causes of insecurity,” he said.
He stressed that gainful employment remains one of the most effective ways to combat crimes such as kidnapping, banditry and phone snatching.
“When young people are educated, employed and earning a decent income, they are less likely to engage in criminal activities. That is why investing in youth empowerment is investing in the peace, security and future of our country,” he added.
Engr. Tahir reaffirmed UMTK Solar Nigeria Limited’s commitment to expanding access to renewable energy solutions while creating more employment opportunities and empowering the next generation of skilled solar energy professionals in Nigeria.