Nigeria has signed a $200 million agreement with pan-African energy firm WeLight to deploy hundreds of renewable mini-grids in underserved areas, delivering clean electricity to up to two million people.
The deal, formalized via a Memorandum of Understanding with Nigeria’s Rural Electrification Agency, includes plans to install 400 mini-grids and 50 MetroGrids in rural and peri-urban communities. The initiative aims to power homes, schools, health centers, and small businesses in regions where roughly 40% of the population still lacks reliable electricity.
Backed by financing from the World Bank and the African Development Bank, the project is expected to significantly boost Nigeria’s efforts to increase the share of renewables in its national energy mix from 22% to 50%, in line with the country’s broader sustainability and development goals.
“This MOU not only represents a leap toward providing clean electricity to millions in Nigeria but also supports WeLight’s ambition to become a truly pan-African company,” said Romain de Villeneuve, CEO of WeLight.
Supported by international partners including Axian Group, Sagemcom, and Norfund, the project is designed to stimulate local economies while strengthening Nigeria’s energy infrastructure.
The deal comes as the country accelerates its transition to a greener future, including plans to have 30% of its domestically manufactured vehicles be electric, according to a recent statement by Nigeria’s Minister of State for Industry, Trade, and Investment, John Uwan-Enoh.
