Quick Summary:
Nigerian government, through REA, secures N7.4bn financing to deploy 7MW of clean electricity across underserved communities.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has recorded a major milestone as an indigenous energy firm secured N7.4 billion financing to deploy 7 megawatts (MW) of electricity in underserved communities across Ebonyi State, Southeast Nigeria.
The development was announced in a statement by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), which described the project as part of ongoing efforts to bridge the nation’s energy access gap through renewable solutions.
Part of N100bn Renewable Energy MoU
The financing forms part of a broader N100 billion Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Nigerian government and a local financial institution to deploy renewable energy infrastructure across eight key sites in Ebonyi State.
The initiative falls under the Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) programme, designed to accelerate clean energy access and stimulate economic growth in rural areas.
Communities to Benefit
The mini-grid deployment will serve multiple communities, including Okposi, Mebiokpa, and Ohaozara in Ohaozara Local Government Area, extending to Ebunwana in Edda LGA.
Additional coverage will include Unwana and Afikpo in Afikpo North, as well as Iboko in Izzi Local Government Area.
These installations are expected to enhance electricity reliability, support small businesses, and improve living standards across the benefiting communities.
REA Commends Strategic Partnerships
Reacting to the progress, REA Managing Director Abba Aliyu described the financing milestone as proof of effective collaboration between the government and private sector partners.
He added that the project exemplifies how strategic alignment between stakeholders can yield immediate benefits for citizens, particularly in rural electrification and sustainable development.
Advancing Nigeria’s Energy Transition
The Ebonyi renewable energy project aligns with Nigeria’s broader energy transition goals, focusing on clean, decentralized power generation to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and expand access to electricity nationwide.
The REA reaffirmed its commitment to scaling up renewable energy investments and replicating similar projects across other states to ensure inclusive energy access for all Nigerians.