Ajuye after dark: How solar power is reshaping life in a forgotten Nigerian town

In a significant shift towards sustainable agriculture, Nigerian women farmers are making strides in reducing the country's substantial food loss problem by adopting renewable energy solutions. According to recent reports, these initiatives are helping to mitigate the staggering $10 billion in annual food losses attributed to inefficiencies in the agricultural sector. This change is particularly evident in areas where traditional reliance on costly diesel generators is being replaced with solar energy, offering long-term financial relief and environmental benefits.

The adoption of solar technology is transforming not only the way these women manage their farms but also the broader landscape of agricultural production and post-harvest practices. One such example is Chinasa Asonye, a farmer based in Ikorodu, Lagos State, who faced mounting costs associated with maintaining her fish ponds and poultry pens using conventional energy sources. As the National Secretary of the Small-Scale Women Farmers Organisation, Asonye initially grappled with the high expenses of purchasing fuel for her generator, which often required frequent maintenance due to unreliable electricity supply.

Her journey took a pivotal turn when she learned about the potential of solar power from a fellow farmer. Initially hesitant due to the initial investment required, Asonye eventually recognized the long-term savings that solar energy could offer compared to the ongoing costs of fuel and generator repairs. After implementing solar panels on her property, she found that her operations became significantly more efficient and cost-effective. This success story inspired other members of her cooperative, leading to a collective effort to embrace renewable energy solutions through cooperative financing rather than commercial bank loans.

The impact of renewable energy extends beyond mere cost savings for these women farmers. They are now able to channel resources previously spent on diesel into enhancing their production capabilities. Solar-powered equipment allows for continuous operation of their businesses, including poultry farming and agricultural processing, while also facilitating the repayment of affordable loans. This shift has enabled many women to reinvest in their enterprises, thereby boosting productivity and sustainability.

In addition to individual efforts, larger-scale initiatives are contributing to the renewable energy revolution in rural Nigeria. Communities like Ajuye in Nasarawa State exemplify this transformation. Once reliant on generators and makeshift lighting, Ajuye now enjoys stable electricity thanks to a 120kW solar hybrid mini-grid developed under the Rural Electrification Agency’s Nigeria Electrification Programme. This project, supported by the World Bank and implemented by Husk Power Systems, became operational in January 2025, marking a new era for the town.

Residents of Ajuye have witnessed profound changes in their daily lives since the introduction of reliable electricity. Businesses that once operated only during daylight hours can now extend their services well into the night. Cold drinks are sold throughout the evening, welding machines function continuously, and charging shops stay open past midnight. These developments reflect not only economic improvements but also a shift in the social fabric of the community, fostering a sense of security and connectivity that was previously absent.

The ripple effects of this energy transition are palpable across various sectors. For instance, welder Bulus Yusuf, who previously spent a significant portion of his income on generator fuel, now operates with drastically reduced costs. His ability to work longer hours and expand his workshop has opened doors for new opportunities, including employing an apprentice. Similarly, Abdulazeez Zakaria, who manages a phone charging hub, has seen his business thrive as he no longer worries about fuel shortages or generator failures.

As these stories unfold, the narrative of renewable energy adoption in Nigeria continues to evolve. While challenges related to access and affordability persist, the successes achieved thus far indicate a promising trajectory. With continued support from governmental and international organizations, the integration of renewable energy into agricultural practices holds the potential to reshape the future of food production and consumption in Nigeria, ultimately contributing to national food security and economic resilience.