AfrElec: World Bank to provide $750mn grant to boost Nigeria Electrification Project

The World Bank has announced its intention to provide an additional $750mn grant to support the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP) on top of an initial $350mn grant, which will end in August 2023.

The NEP aims to provide electricity to rural communities across Nigeria that currently lack access to power. The project uses different methods such as mini-grids, solar home systems, captive power plants and productive-use appliances. Specifically, $48mn has been allocated to the mini-grid component.

During an inspection of two solar-powered mini-grids in Kilankwa I and Kilankwa II communities, the World Bank Director of Strategy and Operations for the Western/Central African Region, Elizabeth Huybens, expressed satisfaction with the project's implementation.

She emphasised the significance of electricity access in reducing poverty and praised the mini-grid systems for providing faster electricity to rural areas and facilitating activities such as operating a rice mill.

The World Bank views access to electricity as a top priority due to its importance in multiple areas of modern life.

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