CELI runs on the time and skill of people who believe communities should not be left behind by the energy transition. Some are engineers, some are teachers, some are students, and some simply have a free afternoon and a willingness to help. All of them make the work possible.
As our programmes grow across Nigeria, so does the number of hands we need. This is an honest look at what volunteering with CELI involves, and how you can be part of it.
Why volunteers are central to how we work
We plan projects with communities rather than for them. That approach only works when there are enough people on the ground to listen, to teach, to set up equipment, and to keep records straight. Volunteers are not an add-on to that model. They are a core part of it.
Every school lecture we deliver, every demonstration garden we tend, and every training session we run is lighter and better because volunteers are involved. The benefit runs both ways: the people who give their time gain real experience in clean energy, community work, and delivery.
Where volunteers help
We group volunteering into four areas, so you can offer the time and skills that fit you best.
Education and schools outreach. Helping deliver our climate and energy sessions in classrooms, preparing materials, and supporting students during activities. If you enjoy explaining ideas clearly, this is where you belong.
Field and community events. Setting up and running events, supporting demonstrations of solar power and agrovoltaics, and helping communities take part. This is hands-on work, often outdoors, and always close to the people we serve.
Communications and social media. Telling the story of the work through writing, photography, video, and design, so that more people understand what a fair energy transition looks like in practice.
Admin and logistics. Keeping the quieter engine running: coordinating schedules, managing records, and making sure the right materials reach the right place at the right time. Serious delivery depends on it.
What you can expect from us
Volunteering with CELI is structured, not open-ended. You will know what you are being asked to do, who to speak to, and how your contribution fits the wider goal. You will work alongside our team and, where it helps, gain exposure to real clean energy projects and the organisations we partner with.
We take your time seriously. We will not ask you to fill hours for the sake of it, and we hold ourselves to the same standards of accountability we ask of any partner.
Who we are looking for
You do not need a technical background. You need reliability, respect for the communities we work with, and a genuine interest in clean energy and livelihoods. Women and young people are especially encouraged to apply, because they are at the centre of the work and should be at the centre of building it.
How to join
Applications are open. Tell us a little about yourself and the areas you would like to help with, and we will be in touch. You can start on our volunteer page, or read more about the different ways to support the work on our Get Involved page.