Abuja, Nigeria
Nigeria has finalized a landmark renewable energy partnership with LONGi Green Energy Technology Co. Ltd., the world’s largest solar panel manufacturer, at the company’s global headquarters in Xi’an, China. The agreement, facilitated by the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) under the leadership of its Director-General, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, marks a significant step toward advancing Nigeria’s clean energy industrialization.
The Nigerian delegation was warmly received by LONGi President, Mr. Boshen Zhong, and Vice President, Mr. Li Wenxue, who conducted an extensive tour of the company’s state-of-the-art solar cell production facilities — among the largest in the world. The visit builds upon the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed earlier this year between the ECN and LONGi in London, which laid the groundwork for deeper collaboration in solar technology and manufacturing.
During the high-level meeting, Dr. Abdullahi led discussions on the establishment of a 500–1000 megawatt (MW) solar panel production factory in Nigeria, a project expected to significantly boost the country’s renewable energy capacity and local manufacturing base. The ECN presentation highlighted Africa’s expanding clean energy market and the rising demand for solar mini-grids, positioning Nigeria as a strategic hub for regional energy innovation.
The talks also emphasized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Solarisation Policy, a national initiative aimed at accelerating access to clean, affordable, and sustainable electricity for all Nigerians.
In response, LONGi executives expressed strong confidence in Nigeria’s energy market and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to making substantial investments toward establishing local production facilities. The company indicated readiness to advance concrete implementation plans for the proposed solar manufacturing plant, which will serve both domestic and West African markets.
Dr. Abdullahi described the partnership as “a historic milestone for Nigeria’s renewable energy transformation,” noting that it aligns perfectly with the Federal Government’s vision for sustainable growth, energy security, and industrial diversification.
“This collaboration with LONGi represents more than a business agreement, it is a catalyst for technological transfer, job creation, and the empowerment of local industries,” Dr. Abdullahi said. “Nigeria is ready to lead Africa’s clean energy future.”
The Energy Commission of Nigeria reiterated its commitment to working closely with LONGi and other key stakeholders in government and the private sector to ensure the success of the initiative. When completed, the project is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, strengthen Nigeria’s renewable energy value chain, and position the nation as a leading producer of solar panels on the continent.
