From Grants To Growth: Niger Must Not Be Left In Darkness Or Behind In Business

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The Honourable Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Niger State, Hon. Suleiman Umar, has called on investors, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders in Niger State to urgently invest and key into renewable energy opportunities as the sector records major growth across Nigeria and Africa.

Hon. Umar noted that eight Nigerian companies have just secured part of a $1.5 million grant under the Productive Use Financing Facility (PUFF) to expand solar-powered appliances for farmers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. The initiative, supported by CLASP and the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), is targeting the deployment of 3,800 productive-use appliances and over 3,000 green jobs.

According to him, technologies such as solar-powered water pumps, refrigeration systems, milling equipment, and other clean energy solutions are already transforming businesses in other states and across Africa.  

“Organisations across Nigeria are already moving far ahead with renewable energy projects. Africa’s economic future depends not just on electricity access, but on ensuring that energy-powered businesses create jobs and improve livelihoods," Hon. Umar said.  

“Our people in Niger State should not be left behind. The technologies already exist. What we need now is for our investors and stakeholders to take advantage of these opportunities, reduce business costs, increase productivity, and drive local economic development.”

He explained that expanding renewable energy use in agriculture, commerce, and small businesses could unlock massive economic benefits, with the sector projected to create nearly $16 billion in annual income and about 50 million new jobs across Africa in the next decade.

Hon. Umar reaffirmed the commitment of the Niger State Government under the President Tinubu Renewed Hope Agenda and the Governor Bago New Niger Agenda for Nigerlites to support policies, partnerships, and investments that will make clean energy affordable and accessible to communities across the state.

He encouraged financial institutions, private sector players, and development partners to work with the Ministry to scale renewable energy solutions in Niger State and ensure residents benefit from the ongoing energy transition.


A.B Makama 

Media Strategist To Honorable Commissioner For Power and Renewable Energy 


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