Ecobank Nigeria, in collaboration with the Regional Off-Grid Electricity Access Project (ROGEAP), has successfully concluded a three-day Entrepreneurship Business Training (EBT) aimed at empowering 50 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria’s off-grid solar sector. The training, held from March 10 to 12, 2025, in Abuja, provided participants with essential skills and knowledge to enhance their business operations and contribute to sustainable energy solutions across West Africa.​

Objectives of the Training

The primary goal of the EBT was to equip solar SMEs with the necessary tools to scale their businesses and improve their service delivery. The training covered various aspects, including:​

• Business Management & Elevator Pitching: Crafting compelling business value propositions to attract investors and customers.​

• Financial Literacy & Credit Management: Understanding financial statements, credit scoring, and debt management to ensure financial stability.​

• Environmental, Social, Health & Safety (ESHS): Ensuring compliance with industry standards and promoting sustainability in operations.​

• Marketing & Sales Strategies: Expanding market reach and boosting customer engagement through effective marketing techniques.​

• Quality Assurance & Off-Grid Solar Systems: Meeting industry standards and improving service delivery in off-grid solar installations.​

• Accessing Financial Solutions: Exploring funding opportunities, including Ecobank’s SME support programs, to facilitate business growth.​

Key Stakeholders and Contributions

The training was organized in partnership with the ECOWAS Commission and supported by the World Bank, Clean Technology Fund, and the Directorate-General for International Cooperation (DGIS). Notable figures at the event included Prof. Nazifi Abdullahi Darma, Commissioner for Internal Services at the ECOWAS Commission, and Tunde Dawodu, Divisional Head (FCT & North) at Ecobank Nigeria.​

Prof. Darma emphasized the importance of such initiatives in driving economic transformation, stating, “This training is designed to equip solar technicians with the essential technical, financial, and business management skills to thrive in the renewable energy sector. You are key drivers of economic transformation!” ​

Tunde Dawodu highlighted Ecobank’s commitment to supporting SMEs in the renewable energy sector, noting, “Ecobank Transnational Incorporated is proud to partner with ECOWAS Commission – ROGEAP PFM to support SMEs in the solar energy sector. This training will open doors to new opportunities, financial empowerment, and long-term business growth.” ​

Impact on the Solar SME Sector

The training has had a significant impact on the participating SMEs, providing them with the knowledge and resources to enhance their operations and contribute to the expansion of clean energy access in Nigeria and beyond. By focusing on capacity building and financial empowerment, the initiative aims to strengthen the off-grid solar sector and foster innovation in renewable energy solutions.​

Participants have reported increased confidence in managing their businesses, improved understanding of financial management, and enhanced capabilities in delivering quality solar solutions to underserved communities.​

Looking Ahead

The success of this training marks a significant step toward achieving sustainable energy goals in West Africa. Ecobank and ROGEAP plan to continue their collaboration to provide further support to solar SMEs, including additional training sessions, access to financing, and networking opportunities. These efforts align with broader regional objectives to promote clean energy, economic development, and poverty reduction.​

As the renewable energy sector continues to grow, initiatives like the EBT play a crucial role in empowering local entrepreneurs, enhancing their skills, and enabling them to contribute effectively to the region’s energy transition.​

For more information on upcoming training sessions and support programs for solar SMEs, interested parties are encouraged to contact Ecobank Nigeria or visit the official ROGEAP website.