In a powerful address at the ongoing Energy Summit in Tanzania, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reinforced the country’s dedication to transforming Africa’s energy sector. His speech highlighted Nigeria’s support for major global initiatives aimed at increasing energy access and improving electricity infrastructure across the continent.
Tinubu emphasized Nigeria’s full backing of the objectives set by global institutions, including the World Bank, the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Rockefeller Foundation, and the Energy Alliance. These organizations aim to bring electricity to 300 million people in Africa by 2030, a goal that Nigeria is committed to supporting through collaborative efforts.
A notable highlight of the speech was Nigeria’s partnership with the AfDB, which has invested $1.1 billion into the country’s electricity sector. This investment is expected to provide power to five million Nigerians by 2026. Additionally, Tinubu mentioned another key initiative—the $200 million Nigeria Electrification Project—which will bring electricity to half a million people by the end of 2025.
The Nigerian leader also outlined the country’s emphasis on renewable energy development. The government is in the final stages of rolling out an electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across Nigeria. In the first phase of the project, 100 electric buses have already been procured. This move is part of a broader strategy to transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources.
In 2024 alone, Nigeria attracted investments totaling N6 billion in renewable energy projects. Tinubu highlighted how his administration continues to create incentives for both local and international investors in renewable energy, as well as oil and gas energy efficiency.
Looking to the future, Tinubu expressed Nigeria’s excitement about the Desert to Power program, a major renewable energy initiative that aims to harness solar power from the Sahel region. The African Development Bank has pledged a $700 million facility to support this ambitious project.
Nigeria’s renewable energy portfolio is growing, with significant projects underway, including the Nigeria-Grid Battery Energy Storage System, which will provide electricity to an additional two million people. The government is also working on distributed energy access solutions, such as mini-grids and standalone solar systems, which are projected to benefit 16.2 million Nigerians, with backing from the World Bank.
As Nigeria continues to prioritize energy access, sustainability, and innovation, Tinubu’s speech underscores the country’s central role in advancing Africa’s energy goals and improving the lives of millions across the continent.
