World Bank Announces $750 Million Grant For Nigerian

The World Bank has revealed its plans to provide an additional $750 million in support of the Nigerian Electrification Project (NEP).

Ms. Elizabeth Huybens, the Director of Strategy and Operations for the Western/Central African Region at the World Bank, made the announcement during her visit to Kilankwa II, a settlement in Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where she inspected a 60kw solar-powered mini grid. The initial grant of $350 million, which was allocated for the NEP, is set to expire in August 2023.

The NEP, administered by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and funded by the World Bank, aims to provide electricity access to underserved communities throughout Nigeria. Recognizing the crucial role of electricity in poverty eradication, Huybens emphasized that access to electricity is a priority goal for the World Bank.

Huybens stated, “It is hard for me to think about modern life without electricity. It is also hard to think about reducing poverty without access to electricity. And since the World Bank’s overarching goal is to help countries eradicate poverty, we need to help countries provide access to electricity to their populations.”

Highlighting the significance of the project, Huybens announced the expansion of the World Bank’s support, stating, “The $350 million grant is coming to a close. We are preparing a successor project that will be $750 million. So, we are expanding our support to something that we think is really critical, in which Nigeria is leading the world with this sort of small grant development.”

Engr Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of REA, emphasized the importance of connecting energy-efficient equipment to the mini grid for increased productivity. The 60kw capacity project currently serves approximately 300 connections and has been operational for some time.

Ahmad stated, “We’re privileged to have come here today with the director of the World Bank task team to see how it’s performing. We’re still looking for more productive use, ensuring that we have energy-efficient equipment connected to the mini grid.”

The World Bank’s increased support for the NEP reflects its commitment to promoting sustainable and inclusive development in Nigeria by expanding access to electricity in underserved communities. The continuation of this initiative will contribute to the country’s efforts in eradicating poverty and improving the quality of life for its citizens.