Nigeria has launched a $750 million solar electrification programme aimed at improving access to electricity in rural and underserved communities across the country. The initiative is being implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the government body responsible for expanding electricity access to off-grid areas.

According to authorities, the programme will focus on deploying solar mini-grids and off-grid energy solutions to provide reliable electricity to communities that are not connected to the national grid or that experience limited power supply.

The project plans to install more than 1,300 solar mini-grids nationwide, some of which will be connected to the existing electricity network. These systems are expected to deliver stable power to millions of residents, particularly in rural areas.

Mini-grids are small-scale electricity networks capable of generating and distributing power within a specific community without relying entirely on the national grid. They are increasingly used across Africa as a faster and more flexible solution to address electricity shortages.

Beyond the initial $750 million public funding, the Nigerian government aims to attract more than $1 billion in private investment to support the expansion of solar energy infrastructure.

Reports indicate that international investors from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom and China are closely monitoring the programme, which is seen as a significant opportunity in one of Africa’s largest energy markets.

Despite being Africa’s largest economy, the Nigeria continues to face a major electricity deficit. Many households and businesses still rely on fuel-powered generators due to unreliable power supply.

Through this solar electrification initiative, authorities hope to expand access to electricity, reduce dependence on fossil-fuel generators and support economic development in rural communities.