The House of Representatives Committee on Renewable Energy is developing a new law—the National Inclusive Green Jobs Act (NIGJA)—aimed at creating jobs and opening up fresh opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) within Nigeria's clean energy space.
The bill, which is currently in draft, seeks to link renewable energy investment with inclusive employment creation, particularly for youth and women, while also fostering SME participation across the value chain—from solar installation to equipment supply and maintenance.
According to the committee, the legislation is designed to support the growth of local businesses by promoting targeted skills development, strengthening technical training institutions, and encouraging domestic production of renewable energy components, which are currently largely imported.
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The bill will also mandate federal ministries and agencies to adopt renewable energy, creating new markets for SMEs in energy solutions and services.
With Nigeria targeting 30% renewable energy by 2030, the bill could unlock over 340,000 direct jobs by the end of the decade, many of which are expected to come from SME-led initiatives. Projects like the Next-Gen RESCO Programme and Solar Power Naija already offer early models of how SMEs can drive employment in the sector.
However, gaps in skilled labour and limited access to finance remain challenges. The committee plans to include provisions in the bill that support access to training, innovation hubs, and finance for SMEs, especially those led by women and young entrepreneurs.
The draft law also aligns with regional trade goals under AfCFTA, potentially positioning Nigerian SMEs to export clean energy solutions across West Africa.
Stakeholders from civil society, development agencies, and the private sector are backing the bill and working with lawmakers to ensure that it reflects real business needs.
Once passed, the legislation is expected to become a key driver of SME growth in Nigeria's transition to a green economy.
