Nigeria’s Niger State government plans to work with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) on a $163 million solar power project aimed at expanding electricity access and supporting economic activity in the state. The development was reported by Reuters, citing state officials who confirmed that discussions with the multilateral lender have advanced.
The project involves the construction of a 100-megawatt solar power plant on about 200 hectares of land, designed to supply electricity to several communities across Niger State. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to address persistent power shortages and boost renewable energy capacity in Nigeria, according to MarketScreener.
Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago said the solar project would support the state’s agricultural and industrial ambitions by improving access to reliable electricity. “This project will strengthen food production, agro-processing and revenue generation in the state,” Bago said, as quoted by Reuters. Daniyar Abylkhan, head of the IsDB task team, said the bank aims to leverage Niger State’s solar potential to deepen development cooperation.
The Secretary to the State Government, Usman Abubakar, said preparatory work, including technical, environmental and social assessments, is underway ahead of final approval and financing. Reuters reported that officials did not give a timeline for completion or when the project is expected to begin commercial operations.
