UNDP and REA Partner to Accelerate Nigeria’s Clean Energy Future and Train Next-Gen Professionals

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Nigeria’s Rural Electrification Agency (REA) have entered into a strategic partnership to fast-track the country’s transition to clean energy, foster innovation, and build a skilled workforce for the energy sector of the future.

Announced on Friday in Abuja, the agreement is structured around five core pillars: promoting education and innovation, expanding skills development, supporting policy reform at the state level, unlocking innovative financing, and advancing research and public awareness. According to REA, the collaboration aligns with national goals to scale up renewable energy access and drive sustainable development.

REA’s Managing Director/CEO, Abba Aliyu, hailed the initiative as a “game-changer” that will leverage ongoing federal efforts in renewable energy expansion. He highlighted its potential to boost local manufacturing, increase investment, and position Nigeria as a leader in the renewable energy space. Aliyu emphasized the need for practical approaches to local content, innovation financing, and governance efficiency to ensure long-term sustainability.

UNDP Resident Representative, Ms. Elsie G. Attafuah, described the partnership as a bold move towards a greener and more inclusive Nigerian economy. She noted that beyond powering communities, the project would drive job creation, youth empowerment, and innovation—especially through initiatives like the integration of UNDP’s University Innovation Pods into REA’s Energising Education Programme. The deal will also expand REA’s NEXTGEN initiative to develop a national talent pipeline for clean energy, while providing policy and financing support at the state level and encouraging broader public adoption of renewable solutions.