Oando Clean Energy Limited, in collaboration with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop a 1.2-gigawatt (GW) solar power project, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s transition to renewable energy.
The initiative, which aims to provide electricity to millions of Nigerians, will be the largest solar power project in the country upon completion.
According to Oando on Wednesday, the landmark project is designed to enhance electricity access, promote sustainability, and drive local manufacturing within Nigeria’s renewable energy sector.
The first phase, a 600-megawatt (MW) solar power rollout, is expected to be completed by 2026.
Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, the Managing Director/CEO of the REA, Abubakar Abba Aliyu, described the collaboration as a “game-changer” that will not only expand electricity access but also position Nigeria as a leader in the renewable energy space. He emphasized the project’s potential to create jobs through local manufacturing and strengthen the nation’s clean energy infrastructure.
“This collaboration is a game-changer, not just in expanding access to electricity but in positioning Nigeria as a renewable energy hub,” Aliyu stated.
Oando Clean Energy’s President & CEO, Ademola Ogunbanjo, highlighted the project’s innovative approach, particularly the integration of Africa’s first solar module assembly plant with a recycling line.
This feature according to him, will ensure that old and non-functional solar panels are repurposed into raw materials, reducing waste and enhancing sustainability.
“This is Africa’s first solar module assembly plant with a recycling line that will see old and dysfunctional solar panels recycled into raw materials for various purposes,” Ogunbanjo said.
He said that beyond providing cleaner energy, the initiative aligns with Oando’s broader commitment to a “just energy transition.” The company has emphasized its dedication to carbon capture, energy transmission, and the deployment of electric vehicles (EVs) for public transportation as part of its sustainability strategy.
Wale Tinubu, Group Chief Executive Officer of Oando, reiterated the company’s commitment to adopting cleaner energy solutions, stressing that the project represents a crucial step towards energy diversification in Nigeria.
He noted that the 1.2GW solar power initiative is expected to drive the expansion of solar photovoltaic (PV) infrastructure, enhance local manufacturing capacity, and significantly improve energy accessibility across the country, reinforcing Nigeria’s push towards a sustainable energy future.
