The findings appear in the UN’s World Social Report 2026: The New Economics of Social Inclusion, which highlights the Rural Electrification Agency’s (REA) role in extending modern energy infrastructure to underserved and unserved communities.

The report also identifies Nigeria and Ghana as leaders in agrivoltaics projects, which combine solar installations with active farmland. The approach enables communities to generate clean electricity while continuing agricultural production on the same land, making dual use of sunlight possible for food and energy generation.

The UN cited the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP) as an example of effective policy intervention, noting that subsidies for rural mini-grids have reduced electricity tariffs for vulnerable consumers while attracting private investment.

Under the initiative, 125 mini-grids have been deployed, alongside the distribution of more than one million Solar Home Systems (SHS).

“Through these interventions, more than 5 million Nigerians now have access to reliable power, backed by targeted subsidies, lifeline tariffs, and pay-as-you-go financing models designed to ensure long-term affordability and widespread access,” the report read in part.

The report stressed that targeted subsidies and differential pricing are important for ensuring an equitable transition to clean energy. It added that prioritising energy efficiency and off-grid electricity in low-income communities can deliver strong returns on investment, narrow energy access gaps and encourage local businesses.

Reacting to the recognition, REA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Abba Aliyu said the findings affirmed the agency’s approach to rural electrification as a driver of broader economic and social development.

“It is about building an energy ecosystem that drives economic productivity and uplifts livelihoods,” he said.

Aliyu also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for championing what he described as the world’s largest publicly funded renewable energy portfolio. He disclosed that the agency had facilitated more than 1,000 mini-grid installations nationwide.

According to Aliyu, the expanding network is supporting agro-processing, improving agricultural yields and strengthening food security by supplying electricity to irrigation systems, cold storage facilities and rural cottage industries.

He cited the recent commissioning of a 1MW mini-grid project in Gombe State as an example of the agency’s work to support rural economic activities through improved electricity access.

Source: Nigerian Tribune