Nigeria’s Clean Energy Push Empowers Rural Women Entrepreneurs

Reliable electricity remains a major challenge for many rural communities across Nigeria, limiting business growth and economic development. However, the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure is beginning to transform local economies while creating new opportunities for women-led enterprises.

In Namu, a farming community in Plateau State, rice mill owner Victoria Ali has experienced first-hand the impact of unreliable power. Like many rural entrepreneurs, she has faced high operating costs and reduced productivity due to inconsistent electricity. Similar challenges affect traders, fishers and agricultural processors whose businesses depend on dependable energy access.

The situation reflects a broader regional issue. Across sub-Saharan Africa, nearly 600 million people still lack access to electricity, constraining economic growth and social development. To address this challenge, solar-powered minigrids are increasingly being deployed as a cost-effective solution for underserved communities.

One of the leading initiatives is the Africa Minigrids Programme (AMP), implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). In Nigeria, the programme is supported by more than US$5.9 million in funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and delivered in partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency, the African Development Bank and other stakeholders.

AMP is supporting 23 project sites across the country, focusing on solar-powered agribusinesses, rural economic development and inclusive energy access. The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s Electricity Act 2023, National Electrification Strategy and Energy Transition Plan. By replacing diesel generators and reducing reliance on fuelwood, the projects are expected to prevent approximately 74,000 tonnes of carbon emissions over their lifespan.

In 2025, AMP expanded solar minigrid access to more than 14 communities across Nigeria, providing reliable electricity to over 20,000 people. Businesses have reported improved productivity, lower energy costs and increased opportunities for growth.

A key objective of the programme is strengthening women’s participation in the energy transition. Access to electricity can reduce the burden of labour-intensive household and agricultural activities through mechanised processing, solar-powered water systems and refrigeration. These technologies enable women to increase productivity and expand income-generating activities.

The programme is also working to address gender barriers that often limit women’s access to resources, decision-making and commercial opportunities. Through dedicated gender inclusion initiatives, AMP is encouraging greater participation by women in project planning, governance and entrepreneurship.

UNDP estimates that minigrids could provide the most cost-effective electrification pathway for 265 million people across 21 African countries by 2030, representing a US$46 billion market opportunity. As deployment accelerates, decentralised renewable energy systems are emerging as powerful tools for both rural electrification and inclusive economic growth across the continent.