About the Initiative
Who we are
CELI is a non-profit foundation based in Nigeria. We work on clean energy access, solar-integrated agriculture, community training, and education and advocacy. Our work is mainly in Nigeria, with the capacity to extend across West Africa as programmes grow.
We were founded on a simple observation. Millions of people in Nigeria still lack reliable electricity, and many of the communities most exposed to climate change have the least support to adapt to it. Clean energy can change that, but only if it reaches people in a way they can own, use, and maintain.
Our mission
"To expand access to clean, affordable energy and to strengthen sustainable livelihoods in underserved communities, while supporting climate adaptation and a fair energy transition."
Our Approach
Four core principles guide how we build and deliver our initiatives.
Community first
We plan programmes with the communities that will use them. Local ownership is what decides whether energy and training projects last.
Partnership led
We deliver through partnerships with community groups, government agencies, training institutions, and other organisations working on energy and climate. We are built to work inside consortia.
Evidence & measurement
We set clear targets and measure what we achieve, including energy installed, people trained, and the share of women and young people taking part. We report honestly, including the things that do not work.
Accountable
We keep proper records and independent oversight, and we manage conflicts of interest openly.
Scope & Alignment
Where we work
We work across Nigeria from two bases. Our registered office is in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, close to the Niger Delta communities where our energy and livelihoods programmes begin. We also operate from Abuja, the federal capital, which keeps us close to national policy, partners, and funders. Our structure supports work across West Africa, and over time the wider continent, as programmes and funding allow.
Sustainable Development Goals
Our programmes are built around a focused set of the Sustainable Development Goals rather than a broad claim on all of them.
Primary Focus Goals
- 7 Affordable and Clean Energy — Widening solar access in energy-poor locations.
- 13 Climate Action — Integrating resilience and low-carbon technologies in community activities.
- 4 Quality Education — Delivering energy education and green skills through SolarLearn, starting online.
Our work also contributes to zero hunger (SDG 2), gender equality (SDG 5), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), no poverty (SDG 1), and partnerships for the goals (SDG 17).
Governance & Accountability
Our commitment to governance and financial standards is non-negotiable for securing institutional trust.
CELI is registered in Nigeria as an Incorporated Trustees organisation under Part F of Nigeria's Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), registration number IT 9670213. A Board of Trustees provides governance and oversight. Day to day operations are led by the Executive Director.
We are putting in place the policies that a well-run foundation needs, including financial controls, procurement rules, safeguarding, conflict of interest management, and data protection in line with the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation.
Build with us.
We are looking for funders, partners, and communities to work with on clean energy and livelihoods across Nigeria.
Get in touch