More than 50 million people across 40 African countries have gained access to electricity through Mission 300 since the programme began in 2024. The initiative, led by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the World Bank Group, aims to connect 300 million Africans by 2030 through investments in power infrastructure, financing, and energy reforms. As of early 2026, the programme has reached nearly 17% of its target. The World Bank and AfDB have committed nearly $15 billion so far, with $4.5 billion secured in co-financing and over $7 billion in additional support from development partners.
World Bank President Ajay Banga stated that electricity access is accelerating in participating countries and contributing to job creation, healthcare, education, and economic growth. AfDB President Sidi Ould Tah said the programme supports food security through affordable irrigation and improves healthcare via reliable medicine storage. Mission 300 has also spurred energy sector reforms, with 30 countries adopting National Energy Compacts to expand affordable electricity access. More countries are expected to launch similar plans.
In Nigeria, 4.6 million people have benefited from the programme. In February 2026, Mission 300 announced plans to extend electricity to 17.5 million Nigerian households. The AfDB approved a $3.9 million project in early 2026 to support Nigeria and 12 other countries in implementing energy compacts. The World Bank also approved $50 million in January 2026 for solar-powered agricultural projects in Nigeria and five other African nations to boost farm productivity and reduce post-harvest losses. Mission 300 seeks to mobilise at least $90 billion from governments, private investors, and development institutions. Africa still has about 565 million people without electricity, more than 80% of the global total.
The AfDB and World Bank report 4.6 million Nigerians connected under Mission 300, yet plan to reach 17.5 million households months later without explaining the unit discrepancy. The figures suggest either a mismatch in measuring individuals versus homes or an overestimation of coverage. If 4.6 million people are already served, the jump to 17.5 million households implies a massive scaling gap. Nigerians deserve clarity on how many actual homes or people will truly benefit from the new target.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
