In a major stride toward transforming Nigeria’s renewable energy landscape, the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), led by its Director-General, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha, has finalised a groundbreaking strategic partnership with LONGi Green Energy Technology Co. Ltd — the world’s largest solar panel production company.
The official ceremony took place at LONGi’s state-of-the-art global headquarters in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, China. The Nigerian delegation, headed by Dr. Abdullahi, was warmly received by Mr. Boshen Zhong, President of LONGi, alongside Vice President Mr. Li Wenxue. The visit began with a comprehensive tour of one of the world’s largest solar cell production facilities, offering the Nigerian team a firsthand view of LONGi’s cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and its global leadership in solar innovation.
This high-level engagement follows the earlier signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the ECN and LONGi in London earlier this year — a preliminary step that laid the foundation for this landmark partnership.During the discussions in Xi’an, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha advanced talks on the establishment of a 500–1000 megawatt (MW) solar panel production factory in Nigeria, a project that promises to revolutionize the country’s renewable energy industry. The proposed factory will not only serve domestic demand but will also position Nigeria as a potential hub for solar technology across Africa.
In his presentation, Dr. Abdullahi highlighted Africa’s rapidly growing energy market and the immense demand potential for solar mini-grids, especially in rural and underserved communities. He underscored that this initiative directly aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Solarisation Policy, which prioritizes the expansion of clean and affordable energy access for all Nigerians.
The ECN delegation emphasized that local solar manufacturing is a critical step toward energy independence, reduction in import dependency, and stimulation of green industrialization across the country.
LONGi’s leadership expressed strong enthusiasm for Nigeria’s vision and reaffirmed the company’s readiness to take practical steps toward realizing the project. President Boshen Zhong commended Nigeria’s forward-looking energy reforms and described the country as a key strategic partner in Africa’s clean energy transition.
Vice President Li Wenxue also noted that LONGi’s technology and expertise would complement Nigeria’s vast renewable potential, assuring that the company is eager to begin detailed planning for the construction of the proposed factory.
This partnership marks a historic milestone in Nigeria’s pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. By bringing one of the world’s most advanced solar manufacturers into the country, the initiative is set to create thousands of jobs, enhance energy security, and drive long-term sustainable development across all sectors of the economy.
As the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) looks ahead, it reaffirms its commitment to work closely with LONGi and the Federal Government of Nigeria to bring this transformative project to fruition. Together, they aim to usher in a new era of clean energy innovation, economic diversification, and environmental responsibility — solidifying Nigeria’s position as a leading player in Africa’s renewable energy revolution.