Nigeria’s push to build its first large-scale solar panel factory is gathering momentum months after the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) sealed a partnership with Chinese renewable giant LONGi.
Officials say discussions are now focused on practical steps to establish the 500–1000 megawatt facility — a project expected to create thousands of technical jobs and boost access to clean energy for homes and small businesses.
For many young engineers and renewable energy entrepreneurs, the project represents hope that Nigeria can finally produce its own solar infrastructure rather than depend on imports. “This could change everything for local innovation,” said one energy analyst in Abuja.
The ECN, under its Director-General Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, has framed the initiative as central to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Solarisation Policy, which seeks to expand affordable energy access nationwide. LONGi officials have reaffirmed their commitment to invest in technology transfer and local manufacturing.
If completed, the project would mark a turning point in Nigeria’s clean energy ambitions, shifting the country from a consumer to a producer in Africa’s growing solar economy.
