Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has sought the assistance of the Japan International Cooperation Agency in securing potential co-financing support for the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up Project, an initiative aimed at expanding the reach of renewable energy nationwide.

The $750m World Bank-assisted programme implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency is to provide electricity to 17.5 million Nigerians.

Adelabu made the request during a high-level delegation of key stakeholders in Nigeria’s power sector to Japan to strengthen bilateral energy partnerships, according to a statement by the electrification agency on Saturday.

The three-day strategic visit served as a critical platform to engage with Japanese energy leaders, policymakers, and industry experts, with a focus on enhancing Nigeria’s power infrastructure, improving grid reliability, and exploring innovative energy solutions.

The government aim to secure $200m from the cooperation agency as part of plan to attract over $1bn in private capital and additional financing from development partners.

The statement read, “The visit resulted in the identification and advancement of key initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s power sector.

“Short-Term Grid Reliability Measures – Discussions focused on immediate steps that Nigeria can implement to enhance national grid stability and resilience, leveraging Japan’s expertise in grid operations and maintenance.

“Co-Financing of the DARES Project – The visit advanced JICA’s potential co-financing support for the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up Project, implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency.

“This initiative is set to expand energy access in rural and underserved communities, stimulating economic growth and sustainable development.

“Long-Term Collaboration and Investment Opportunities – The engagements laid a strong foundation for future collaboration between Nigeria and Japan, unlocking opportunities for technology transfer, capacity building, and investments in Nigeria’s energy infrastructure.”

The statement added that Adelabu and his team further engaged in high-level technical discussions to deepen Nigeria-Japan energy sector cooperation, including: a bilateral meeting with the Japanese Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry, where both parties explored opportunities to strengthen economic and energy sector collaborations.