Nigeria’s long-stalled Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway could gain new momentum through an unconventional financing model that turns roadside infrastructure into a major source of income

A proposal led by British greentech company Conflow Power Group, in partnership with Nigerian infrastructure firm Mora Energy, is being discussed with the Nigerian Government to address the project’s persistent funding challenges. The plan centres on the deployment of thousands of iLamps, solar-powered smart streetlights that also function as nodes in a distributed, AI-driven data centre network.

The iLamps operate entirely off-grid, requiring no external electricity supply. Each unit is equipped with Nvidia AI processors, allowing it to provide computing power that can be rented by global AI companies, including OpenAI, creating a continuous revenue stream alongside its public infrastructure role.

Through a collaboration with UK-based AI Factories Limited, every iLamp would serve as part of a decentralised AI computing network. Each unit is expected to generate up to US$4,500 per year in fees paid by AI service providers

If rolled out along the full 700km highway, the proposed installation of around 28,000 iLamps could generate approximately US$1.26bn annually, potentially covering a significant portion of the highway’s construction and long-term financing needs.

Stanley Chuka-Umeora, founder of Mora Energy, said, “Our government contacts immediately understood the significance of what Conflow was proposing. For 50 years, Nigeria has struggled with this project because we were applying 20th-century solutions to 21st-century problems. iLamp represents genuinely innovative thinking. It is not just infrastructure, it is revenue-generating technology that brings AI capabilities to Nigeria for the first time.

“Government officials were particularly impressed that iLamp solves multiple problems simultaneously. It's not just about financing, it's about security, communications infrastructure, and bringing cutting-edge technology to Nigerian communities.”

Zainu Goba, CEO of iLamp Africa, highlighted the commercial appeal of the model.

“The financial mathematics are compelling. iLamp doesn't just provide lighting and security, it creates a new revenue stream that could contribute more than a billion dollars towards project costs annually. Combined with zero operational costs through solar power, this improves the project's attractiveness to private investors and has the potential to positively transform the lives of millions of Nigerians,” he said.

Under the proposal, revenue generation would begin as soon as completed sections of the highway become operational, reducing dependence on toll revenues and public funding. Beyond lighting, the smart streetlights would deliver a range of services, including surveillance, vehicle recognition, emergency response systems, public connectivity and environmental monitoring, all powered entirely by solar energy.

The initiative would also create one of Africa’s largest distributed AI computing networks, allowing data processing to take place locally rather than abroad. This could support Nigeria’s expanding technology ecosystem and strengthen its position as a regional hub for AI infrastructure.

Discussions between iLamp Africa, Mora Energy, the Nigerian Government and other project stakeholders are ongoing, with the aim of formally integrating the technology into the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway.

Originally conceived in the 1970s, the 700km highway is intended to link nine coastal states and stimulate trade, tourism and economic development across southern Nigeria. Despite its strategic importance, the project has faced repeated delays due to funding gaps, political transitions and economic pressures.

Although construction resumed in 2024, only about US$747mn has been secured so far, representing less than 6% of the estimated US$11–12.5 billion total cost. The remaining shortfall of more than US$10bn continues to raise concerns that progress could once again be stalled without innovative financing solutions.

Palfinger has introduced a new addition to its TEC range of loader cranes available for the Africa, Middle East and Europe region

With its class-leading lifting capacity, its combination of maximum precision and smartest technology the new Palfinger PK 720 TEC is an ideal choice for demanding construction environments.

Offering both recision and performance above its class, the PK 720 TEC expands the TEC family with a powerful solution positioned between the PK 580 and PK 880 TEC.

“The crane combines cutting-edge engineering with smart assistance systems, making demanding lifting tasks easier and more efficient,” a Palfinger statement noted.

“The new model demonstrates how Palfinger translates its ambition to deliver lasting customer value into practical innovation.”

With Reach Higher, its Strategy 2030+, Palfinger has defined ‘Lifting Customer Value’ as a core strategic direction.

A key element of this strategy is the ‘Technology and Market Leadership’ programme, which positions innovation as a core competency – aiming to sustainably enhance customer productivity and value creation across the entire product lifecycle.

Built for the most demanding tasks and developed for challenging construction environments, the PK 720 TEC delivers “outstanding” performance, according to Palfinger.

With a maximum lifting moment of 68.7 metre-tons, and a hydraulic reach of up to 22 metres, it excels in heavy-duty applications.

In its nine-extensions configuration and with a fly jib featuring the Dual Power System (DPS-C), the crane achieves an impressive lifting capacity of up to 34.4 metres of reach – outperforming other models in the 70-metre-ton class.

Thanks to the TEC range’s proven P-profile boom system, the PK 720 TEC combines maximum stiffness with a low dead weight.

For enhanced visibility, Palfinger has introduced a new lighting system that includes two working lights on the knuckle boom and the fly jib each, as well as LED strips beneath the knuckle boom, which enable good field vision.

As part of the TEC range, the PK 720 TEC is also equipped with the most advanced assistance systems.

Operators benefit from Paltronic 180 control electronics for intelligent crane operation, while the LX-6 control valve ensures smooth and responsive handling.

Features such as HPSC-Plus for intelligent stability monitoring, S-HPLS for enhanced lifting performance, and the Support Force Limit function – which monitors the stabiliser forces based on ground conditions – all contribute to greater safety, control and efficiency.

Another highlight is the Height & Bound feature, the statement added.

“The Height assistance limits the maximum working height, while the Bound defines a ‘virtual wall’ that limits the work area. Once configured, the crane works worry-free beneath overhead obstacles or in confined environments, offering a new level of safety and confidence in complex environments.

Read more:

Crane, hoists set for Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Namibia mines

Palfinger's new middle-seat truck-mounted forklift

Zoomlion powering North Africa's infrastructure growth

Meta Global Vision Holdings LLC has reported ongoing development and expansion of Africa Turbo, its automotive and industrial parts platform designed to support mining companies, fleet operators, and automotive repair businesses across African markets

Africa Turbo focuses on the supply of automotive components, heavy-duty engine parts, and tyres, targeting organisations that depend on reliable access to equipment parts to sustain day-to-day operations. The platform is structured to consolidate sourcing from international suppliers, providing customers with a single access point to a broad range of components used across industrial and mobility applications.

The company highlighted that mining operators and repair facilities in many African markets continue to contend with fragmented supply chains, uneven product availability, and lengthy procurement cycles. Africa Turbo was developed to help mitigate these challenges by coordinating supplier engagement and logistics through a centralised platform.

According to Meta Global Vision Holdings LLC, Africa Turbo collaborates with established suppliers to support consistent quality standards and dependable supply for industrial customers operating under varied regional and environmental conditions. The platform is intended to serve both large-scale industrial operations and independent repair workshops seeking predictable access to parts.

“Africa Turbo was developed to respond to recurring supply challenges faced by industrial and automotive operators across the continent,” said Wendtoin Arsene Tonde, Marketing Director at Meta Global Vision Holdings LLC. “The platform focuses on improving access and coordination rather than introducing new consumer-facing products.”

Meta Global Vision Holdings LLC added that Africa Turbo forms part of its wider portfolio of infrastructure-focused platforms. The company continues to assess regional demand and potential operational partnerships as the platform evolves.

Further announcements on platform features and regional reach are expected as Africa Turbo continues to expand its operations.

The Central African Republic has taken a significant step forward in advancing the Pointe-Noire–Brazzaville–Bangui–N’Djamena (CD13) multimodal transport corridor with the official launch of works on the MANGOMBE river port, marked by the laying of its foundation stone

The ceremony, held on 10 December 2025, signals a new stage in regional integration efforts aimed at boosting intra-regional trade, easing the movement of goods and people, and supporting economic growth across Central Africa through improved road and river transport links.

The event was presided over by President Faustin-Archange Touadéra of the Central African Republic, alongside Prime Minister Félix Moloua, members of government, African Development Bank representatives led by interim Country Manager Boye Kissagne, development partners and local community representatives.

“By laying this stone, I confirm my strong commitment to building a modern Central African Republic that can capitalise on its geographical, hydraulic and human assets to take a worthy place among emerging nations,” president Touadéra said.

“This marks a decisive turning point for our policy of openness, connectivity and greater economic exchange in our Central African sub-region. We are laying more than a stone: we are laying the foundation of something that will bring growth, hope and opportunities for our country.”

Located at Mongoumba, the new river port is designed to play a pivotal role in strengthening river transport links between the Central African Republic and the Republic of Congo. The facility is expected to improve regional connectivity, shorten supply chains, ease inflationary pressures, and enhance the management of cargo transfers between river and road networks. In addition, the project is anticipated to stimulate private sector investment, create employment and open up new opportunities in logistics and financial services.

The project is being financed through a US$282mn grant from the African Development Fund, the concessional financing arm of the African Development Bank Group, underscoring the institution’s continued commitment to infrastructure development across Africa.

“Today, we are not simply launching an infrastructure project; we are opening the door to a future firmly focused on shared prosperity,” Kissagne said.

“The Port of Mongoumba is a symbol of resilience, courage, and determination to advance despite challenges.”

Construction of the port is scheduled to last 24 months and will be executed by the Italian–Egyptian Selip–Rowad consortium, with oversight provided by the SCET Tunisie and Lege Engineering consortium.

Currently, the African Development Bank Group is supporting 20 projects in the Central African Republic, with total commitments of US$583mn. These investments are concentrated mainly in transport (51%), water and sanitation (21%), agriculture (12%) and other sectors, including energy, social development, governance and finance (16%).

African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and Heirs Energies Limited have unveiled a US$750mn financing arrangement aimed at strengthening Heirs Energies’ capital structure and releasing liquidity to meet its working capital needs as it advances an extensive field development programme

The funding is expected to play a key role in boosting Nigeria’s domestic energy supply at a time of rising demand.

The agreement was signed in Abuja by Dr George Elombi, president and chairman of the board of directors of Afreximbank, and Tony O Elumelu CFR, chairman of Heirs Energies Limited. Structured as a dual-tranche, senior secured reserve-based lending facility, the financing is intended to support Heirs Energies’ next phase of expansion as the company seeks to increase and sustain oil and gas production.

Under the transaction, Afreximbank served as Mandated Lead Arranger, Facility Agent, and Security Agent. The deal is viewed as a significant step in the strategic relationship between Afreximbank and Heirs Energies, reflecting deeper collaboration between the two organisations.

Speaking after the signing, Dr Elombi described the partnership as evidence of Afreximbank’s focus on value creation and backing African entrepreneurs.

“Without investments, such as the one being provided to Heirs Energies, many fossil fuel-dependent African economies would face dire economic challenges,” said Dr Elombi. “Our aim, among others, is to empower the African entrepreneur. Our core strength is in the value of the partnerships we continue to forge.”

He also acknowledged Mr. Elumelu’s continued support for Afreximbank, noting that such collaborations have helped position the institution as a key driver of Africa’s economic transformation and broader development objectives.

Dr Elombi reiterated Afreximbank’s commitment to advancing the African Energy Bank initiative, stating, “we should get to higher strides and get the Energy Bank so we can move most of the energy portfolio there. We will put tremendous capital in it to be as bold and as innovative as Afreximbank”.

He further indicated that Afreximbank is open to working with Heirs Holdings and its affiliated businesses as they expand into other West African markets, including Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, as well as across the wider continent. “Our aim is to spread and support the domination of the African brand across Africa.”

Tony O Elumelu, CFR, chairman of Heirs Energies Limited, said, “This transaction is a powerful affirmation of what African enterprise can achieve when backed by disciplined execution and long-term African capital. It reflects the successful journey Heirs Energies has taken – from turnaround to growth – and reinforces our belief in African capital working for African businesses. This is Africa financing Africa’s future.”

Heirs Energies occupies a central position in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, where crude oil continues to hold major national and international significance.

The relationship between Afreximbank and Heirs Energies dates back to 2021, when the company, then operating as Heirs Oil and Gas, completed the acquisition of a 45% participating interest in the OML 17 Joint Venture. The US$1.1bn transaction was financed by a consortium of international and local banks led by Afreximbank and represented one of the largest indigenous energy acquisitions in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

Afreximbank contributed up to US$250mn to that financing, highlighting its commitment to developing Africa’s energy sector and supporting intra-African trade and African-owned businesses.

Following the acquisition, crude oil output increased from around 25,000 barrels per day to an average of 50,000 barrels per day, alongside growth in associated and non-associated gas production. Heirs Energies also achieved first gas from the Agbada Non-Associated Gas Plant on 21 November 2021, only months after assuming control of an asset that had remained under construction for more than a decade under the previous operator.

Today, Heirs Energies is the leading gas supplier within the Eastern Domestic Network and provides gas to three major power plants, together accounting for roughly 15% of Nigeria’s installed electricity generation capacity.

Caracol, a global leader in robotic large-format additive manufacturing, and RusselSmith, an ISO-certified provider of innovative asset integrity and advanced manufacturing solutions for critical industries in Africa, have announced a Strategic Partnership to deploy, develop, and commercialise Caracol’s Vipra AM platforms – its robotic Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) technology – in West Africa

This collaboration aims to establish a world-class advanced manufacturing hub in the region, supporting the growth of local industrial capabilities and enabling the adoption of innovative and sustainable production solutions.

Under the exclusive partnership, Caracol and RusselSmith will:

• Deploy Caracol’s robotic large-format Vipra AM technology across key West African markets.

• Develop local expertise and capacity in advanced manufacturing.

• Support commercialisation opportunities across diverse industrial sectors.

• Advance regional industrialisation by providing innovative, scalable, and sustainable manufacturing solutions.

By combining Caracol’s global leadership in robotic WAAM technology with RusselSmith’s regional presence and industry expertise, the partnership aims to accelerate the transformation of West Africa’s manufacturing landscape, enhancing its role as a hub for innovation, efficiency, and industrial growth.

Riccardo Nicastro, global chief commercial officer and managing director of Middle East and Africa for Caracol, said, "The partnership between RusselSmith and Caracol is a testament of commitment towards Africa and its technology and manufacturing independence, agnostically from industries, together we are pursuing the creation of value for the whole Continent."

This initiative marks the start of a long-term collaboration that will bring two Caracol Vipra AM advanced technology platforms to the region, while also fostering talent development, promoting sustainability, and creating new economic opportunities.

Kayode Adeleke, CEO of RusselSmith, stated, "Our exclusive partnership with Caracol represents another bold stride in shaping the future of advanced manufacturing in West Africa. By introducing robotic WAAM technology through Caracol’s Vipra AM platform, we are unlocking new possibilities for industrialisation across the region. This collaboration allows us to build local expertise, accelerate the development of scalable manufacturing solutions, and create opportunities that strengthen Africa’s ability to compete globally. Together with Caracol, we are laying the foundation for a world-class hub that drives innovation, nurtures talent, and delivers sustainable growth for the industries we serve."