Nigerian Firms Begin Export of Renewable Energy Infrastructure to Liberia, Sierra Leone, Reveals REA Boss
Nigerian renewable energy firms have begun exporting solar and mini-grid infrastructure to Liberia and Sierra Leone, marking a significant step in West Africa’s drive toward clean and decentralized energy solutions.
The Managing Director of Nigeria’s Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, announced this development during a media briefing.
According to him, this move highlights the growing capacity and technical expertise of Nigerian firms in the renewable energy sector.
“This is evidence that Nigeria is no longer just deploying renewable energy for local consumption but is now supporting regional electrification,” Ahmad said. He emphasized that the Nigerian renewable sector is maturing and gaining international recognition for its innovation and efficiency.
The exports are part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to become the renewable energy hub of Africa. Nigerian firms are now supplying solar panels, mini-grid components, and off-grid power systems to neighboring countries.
The export activities are focused on Liberia and Sierra Leone, where the firms are assisting in the deployment of new energy infrastructure to improve electricity access in underserved areas.
Within Nigeria, the REA has already completed 70 mini-grid projects and is currently developing 42 interconnected mini-grids in collaboration with electricity distribution companies.
The agency has signed eight grant agreements with private firms and is working with over 100 energy companies to deploy at least 500 additional mini-grids. The ultimate target is to deliver 1,350 mini-grids nationwide, focusing on rural communities.
To achieve these goals, financing has played a crucial role. First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has provided a ₦100 billion project development loan to support domestic and regional energy projects. Further financing of about $20 million is coming from Fidelity Bank and the International Finance Corporation (IFC). These funding arrangements are enabling Nigerian firms to not only electrify rural communities at home but also expand their operations to other West African countries.
The Rural Electrification Agency clarified that there are no abandoned rural electrification projects in Nigeria.
According to Ahmad, all ongoing projects are active, and any delays have been due to funding timelines rather than negligence or abandonment. He assured the public that all contracts are being closely monitored to ensure completion.
This development is also part of larger continental efforts to expand renewable energy access across Africa. In March 2025, Nigeria signed a $200 million agreement with WeLight, a pan-African renewable energy company, to deploy 400 mini-grids and 50 MetroGrids across the country.
This is expected to impact up to 2 million Nigerians directly. Simultaneously, the World Bank has launched a $311 million renewable energy program for Liberia, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Chad, further reinforcing the region’s commitment to clean energy.
Industry experts say the export of renewable energy infrastructure by Nigerian firms will create new economic opportunities, strengthen Nigeria’s role in West Africa’s energy transition, and help address chronic electricity shortages across the region.
The Rural Electrification Agency believes that by exporting clean energy solutions, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s green energy future.
