Nigeria has finalized a strategic partnership with LONGi Green Energy Technology Co. Ltd., the world’s largest solar panel manufacturer, to establish a large-scale solar panel production facility in the country.
The milestone agreement was sealed during a high-level visit by officials of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) to LONGi’s global headquarters in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China. The delegation was led by ECN’s Director-General, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha, and received by LONGi President Boshen Zhong and Vice President Li Wenxue.
During the visit, the Nigerian team was taken on a comprehensive tour of one of the world’s largest and most advanced solar cell production facilities. The engagement builds on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) earlier signed between ECN and LONGi in London earlier this year, aimed at promoting renewable energy development and technology transfer.
Discussions at the meeting focused on the establishment of a 500–1000 megawatt solar panel manufacturing plant in Nigeria, a project expected to significantly boost local production capacity and accelerate the nation’s transition to clean energy.
Dr. Mustapha emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Solarisation Policy, which seeks to expand access to affordable and sustainable electricity for all Nigerians. He added that the project will help reduce import dependence, strengthen energy security, and create new employment opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
“This partnership represents a new chapter in Nigeria’s pursuit of energy independence. By producing solar panels locally, we will not only reduce costs but also empower communities with cleaner and more reliable power,” Dr. Mustapha stated.
The ECN presentation also showcased Africa’s growing energy market and the rising demand for solar mini-grids, highlighting Nigeria’s position as a strategic hub for renewable energy investment.
LONGi, in response, expressed a strong interest in Nigeria’s renewable energy drive and reaffirmed its readiness to invest and collaborate on the proposed solar production facility.
“We see Nigeria as a key partner in Africa’s clean energy future. Our goal is to support the country in achieving large-scale solar adoption through sustainable, locally driven production,” said LONGi Vice President, Li Wenxue.
This collaboration marks a historic milestone in Nigeria’s clean energy journey and positions the country as a future leader in African solar manufacturing.
The Energy Commission of Nigeria expressed optimism that the partnership will soon yield concrete outcomes, driving job creation, enhancing energy access, and advancing national commitments toward carbon reduction and sustainable development.
