Nigeria has attracted $155 million in clean energy investments as the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) steps up efforts to establish the country as Africa’s leading renewable energy hub and a model for sustainable electricity development across the continent.
The Managing Director of the REA, Abba Aliyu, said the latest investments reflect growing international confidence in Nigeria’s off-grid power sector and its expanding renewable energy market.
According to him, the country recently secured an $80 million debt facility to expand off-grid solar home systems and provide clean energy solutions for businesses.
He also revealed that UK-backed clean energy firm MOPO signed a $75 million partnership agreement with the REA to roll out a smart battery programme aimed at improving electricity access.
Aliyu attributed the growing investor interest to ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s electricity sector, which have made the country an attractive destination for renewable energy investments.
He noted that Nigeria has been identified as the largest and fastest-growing market for distributed solar and small-scale renewable energy in Sub-Saharan Africa, reflecting the country’s rising profile in the clean energy industry.
The REA boss further disclosed that international mini-grid operator WeLight, which currently manages nearly 190 mini-grids in Madagascar and Mali, is preparing to invest in Nigeria’s off-grid electricity sector.
He said the increasing flow of investments demonstrates that global financiers and energy developers now see Nigeria as one of Africa’s most promising markets for off-grid renewable energy projects.
Beyond attracting investment, Aliyu said Nigeria is becoming a centre for renewable energy collaboration, with several African countries seeking to learn from its rural electrification programmes.
He revealed that the REA has recently hosted energy delegations from Mozambique and the Zanzibar Utilities Regulatory Authority, while another delegation from Sierra Leone is expected to visit soon.
According to him, the knowledge-sharing sessions focused on project implementation, financing, grid management, policy development and long-term sustainability, with the aim of helping African countries accelerate access to reliable electricity.
Aliyu expressed confidence that stronger collaboration among African nations would speed up universal energy access across the continent, adding that Nigeria remains committed to sharing its experience and supporting regional progress in renewable energy development.
