REA projects are changing lives across Nigeria – Minister
***** Commissions 505kWp Interconnected Solar Mini-Grid in Epe
The Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, has said that projects being implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) are making a measurable impact on the lives of Nigerians.
Speaking at the commissioning of a 505kWp interconnected solar mini-grid in the Eredo community of Epe, Lagos State, the Minister praised the agency’s leadership and achievements.
According to him, REA has evolved from an institution with a strong mandate but limited delivery into one that is visibly improving lives across the country.
“Community by community, kilowatt by kilowatt, life by life, REA is changing lives. Dr. Abba Aliyu, your team and development partners deserve the gratitude of the nation,” Tegbe said.
The project was delivered under the Interconnected Mini-Grid Acceleration Scheme (IMAS), a programme enabled by the Electricity Act 2023, which expanded opportunities for private sector participation in the power sector.
Tegbe noted that more than 1,000 mini-grid projects are currently under development nationwide. He also highlighted the success of the World Bank-supported DARES programme, which has provided solar home systems to nearly 3.9 million Nigerians.
REA Managing Director and CEO, Dr. Abba Aliyu, described electricity as a key driver of economic growth, job creation and industrial development.
He disclosed that the agency plans to deploy an additional 5MW of renewable energy capacity in Epe and nearby economic clusters to support agro-processing, cold-chain facilities and local markets.
The Eredo mini-grid project was delivered through a partnership involving the Federal Government, the European Union, the German Government through GIZ/NESP, and private sector developers.
Speaking on behalf of the project developer, A4&T Solutions, CEO Ayo Ademilua said the project took four years to complete. He revealed plans to introduce electric tricycles powered by the mini-grid, which are expected to reduce transportation operating costs by about 40 percent.
Ademilua also announced that traditional rulers in the community have provided additional land to support the expansion of the mini-grid from 505kWp to 1.5MW.
Also speaking at the event, Hon. Rotimi Abiru, representing Senator Tokunbo Abiru, described the project as a product of strong leadership and effective representation.
“When we speak of electricity, we are talking about economic growth, job creation and opportunities for young people to realise their potential,” he said.
