The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) says it has connected eight million Nigerians to stable electricity under the Nigeria Electrification Project, with plans to reach another 17.5 million people in the next three years.
REA’s Managing Director, Abba Aliyu, explained that the agency is moving away from the traditional contract system by encouraging private-sector companies to invest, with government providing capital grants as incentives. “This approach ensures sustainability because investors have a stake in the projects,” he said.
So far, the agency has deployed solar power to eight universities and is rolling out 42 mini-grids across the country. Six of these are already completed in Osun, Plateau, Cross River and Niger States. Agreements have also been signed to provide electricity to major institutions such as the Universities of Lagos, Ibadan, Benin, Nsukka and Obafemi Awolowo University.
Aliyu also highlighted global support, including a $190 million partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which will bring electricity to another 1.83 million Nigerians. He noted that Nigeria’s solar manufacturing capacity has grown from 120 megawatts to more than 600 megawatts, with new projects expected to push it close to three gigawatts.
Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu said government is working to boost generation and diversify supply. Aliyu added that for the first time, Nigeria has a clear plan to end electricity poverty. “Millions now have light where there was once darkness. This administration is committed to sustaining the progress,” he said.
