ECOWAS, Ecobank Champion Alternative Energy Solutions

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), in partnership with Ecobank Nigeria and the World Bank, is accelerating the shift toward renewable energy by empowering over 100 Nigerian entrepreneurs in the off-grid solar sector.

Through the Regional Off-Grid Electricity Access Project (ROGEAP), the partners are fostering a regional market for standalone photovoltaic systems, with funding support from the World Bank, the Clean Technology Fund, and the Netherlands’ Directorate General of International Cooperation (DGIS).

Speaking at a three-day business training event in Lagos, Senior Adviser at the ECOWAS Commission’s ROGEAP, El Hadji Sylla, revealed that, local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have already secured $800,000 in grants under the programme. The funding is aimed at scaling their participation across the solar energy value chain.

“The workshops in Abuja and Lagos are building both the technical and financial capacity of solar-focused SMEs. Our aim is to help them deliver viable, bankable projects that meet commercial lending standards,” Sylla explained.

ECOWAS is also in advanced discussions with Ecobank Group to develop financial and technical support mechanisms for SMEs, including direct credit lines for qualifying businesses. Sylla emphasised that, aligning SME portfolios with bank requirements is a core part of ensuring their long-term viability.

Ecobank Nigeria’s managing director, Bolaji Lawal, represented at the event by Regional head, Otega Aghogho Odjegna, stressed the importance of SMEs in driving inclusive growth across West Africa, where they account for over 80 per cent of employment.

“This initiative is aligned with our ELLEVATE program and the Single Market Trade Hub, which provide tailored financial solutions and digital tools to help SMEs grow and scale,” Lawal added.

Team Lead for ROGEAP’s Entrepreneurship Support Facilities, Salamatu Baba Tunwzang, noted that the training goes beyond capacity building. “We prepare businesses to access grants, receive technical assistance, and tap into market intelligence and collaborative networks. Technical installers are also included in this support system, she pointed out.