Niger State is set to partner with the Islamic Development Bank on a major $163 million solar electrification initiative aimed at boosting power supply while enhancing support for agriculture and industrial growth.

The ambitious project entails building a 100-megawatt solar power facility in the north-central region of Nigeria, utilizing approximately 200 hectares of land.

The development will deliver electricity to multiple communities throughout Niger State.

Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago said it would complement the state’s agricultural investments by improving access to reliable power for food production and agro‑processing, adding that it would help boost industrial activity and revenue generation.

Daniyar Abylkhan, leader of the development bank’s Task Team, said the bank was leveraging Niger State’s abundant sunlight to support clean energy generation and deepen its long‑standing development partnership with the state.

Secretary to the State Government Usman Abubakar said the meeting marked the start of the bank’s project preparation process, including technical, environmental and social assessments required for final approval and funding.

No timeline was provided by any of the officials regarding when the project is expected to become operational.