Over 13,000 households to benefit from 12MW federal government mini-grid project in Rivers
Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Dr Abba Aliyu with the Representative of the Governor of Rivers State, the Rivers State Deputy Governor, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu at the ground-breaking of a 12MW solar mini-grid project in Bolo/Wakama, Gokana/Khana, Ogu/ChukuAma, and Onne, Rivers State today
More than 13,000 households, businesses, and healthcare facilities are set to benefit from an 11.9MWp solar mini-grid project being implemented by the Federal Government in Rivers State.
The project is one of several being executed by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) under the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) Programme, with support from the World Bank.
The beneficiary communities include Bolo/Wakama, Gokana/Khana, Ogu/ChukuAma, and Onne.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, described the initiative as a product of strong collaboration between the Federal and Rivers State governments.
The governor also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for ensuring that Rivers State remains a key beneficiary of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of the REA, Dr. Abba Aliyu, described the project as another demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that no Nigerian community is left behind because of its location.
He said the initiative presents an opportunity for Rivers State to emerge as a leader in renewable energy, complementing its long-standing position as Nigeria’s oil and gas hub.
«”For decades, Rivers State has powered Nigeria through its oil and gas resources. Today, it is positioning itself to become a leader in renewable energy as well.
“Communities that have contributed immensely to Nigeria’s energy security deserve reliable electricity that drives local prosperity,” Dr. Aliyu said.»
According to him, the projects will deliver nearly 12MWp of clean energy and provide reliable electricity to 13,492 households and businesses across the beneficiary communities.
«”Beyond the numbers, these projects will power businesses, strengthen healthcare and education, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for thousands of families,” he added.»
Dr. Aliyu further noted that the REA has already completed 16 renewable energy projects across Rivers State, delivering more than 11.5MW of installed capacity and providing electricity access to over 14,300 homes and businesses.
He also disclosed that the agency’s flagship 10.5MW solar hybrid power plant at the University of Port Harcourt—one of the largest university-based renewable energy projects in Nigeria—is ready for commissioning.
In his remarks, the Amanyanabo of Bolo Kingdom, HRH Acheseinimie Micah Frank, thanked Governor Fubara and the REA for extending the project to his community.
He said the initiative would stimulate economic growth and improve the productivity of local residents, noting that Bolo Kingdom is predominantly a fishing community whose economy depends on reliable electricity.
