- Delta State signed an MoU with the REA to scale up solar, wind, hydro, and biomass projects as part of its energy transition strategy.
- The initiative will power state facilities, expand rural electrification through off-grid and mini-grid solutions, create jobs, and attract private-sector investment.
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has declared renewable energy the cornerstone of his administration’s development strategy. He pledges to expand investments to improve electricity access, drive industrial growth, and create jobs across the state.
Oborevwori stated this at the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) State-by-State Roundtable in Abuja, themed “Unlocking Distributed Energy Investments for Industrial Growth and Inclusive Access in Delta State.” He outlined a vision of solar, wind, hydro, and biomass solutions as alternatives to costly and unreliable fossil fuels.
“As fossil fuels become increasingly expensive and environmentally unsustainable, Delta State sees renewable energy as the future,” Oborevwori said. “We are committed to scaling up renewable sources to mitigate climate change, stimulate local industries, and create jobs. This is a win-win situation where investors profit while Delta gets powered.”
The governor explained that his administration had already launched a decentralised energy strategy to power key state facilities. Projects are underway to install renewable energy systems at the Delta Government House, the New State Secretariat Complex, Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba International Airport, and state-owned universities.
Oborevwori also announced plans to expand electricity access to rural and riverine communities through mini-grid and off-grid projects, targeting schools, health centres, and small businesses. He said the initiative would boost agro-processing, digital services, and other small-scale enterprises while reducing reliance on diesel generators.
“Every solar panel or mini-grid deployed has the potential to transform lives, helping a child study at night, enabling a clinic to operate, or allowing an entrepreneur to run a business without disruption,” he said.
Delta, Nigeria’s second-largest oil-producing state, continues to face energy poverty despite its role in the fossil fuel economy. The governor stressed that renewable energy offers a pathway to inclusive development while aligning with global climate goals and shifting investor priorities.
The roundtable ended with signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Delta State and the REA to formalise collaboration on renewable energy projects.
REA Managing Director Abba Aliyu commended Delta’s “progressive approach to power supply” through decentralised renewables. At the same time, Doris Uboh, Executive Director of the Rural Electrification Fund, highlighted the potential for job creation in the state through mini-grids.
The governor’s chief economic adviser, Barry Gbe, said the administration was actively courting private-sector partners to accelerate implementation.
Observers noted that Delta’s renewable energy initiative could serve as a model for other Nigerian states. If fully implemented, it would reduce dependence on fossil fuels, expand access to affordable electricity, and position the state as a hub for green investment.