- The REA has electrified 8 million Nigerians and plans to reach 17.5 million more via mini-grids, solar university projects, and private-sector initiatives.
- Nigeria is scaling solar capacity from 120 MW to nearly 3 GW, with $190 million in JICA support to power 1.83 million additional people.
Abba Aliyu, Managing Director and CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), said the agency has connected eight million Nigerians to electricity under the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP) and aims to reach 17.5 million more within three years.
Meanwhile, Aliyu credited the progress to the Federal Government’s efforts to close Nigeria’s energy gap. “Many Nigerians lack electricity, but we have connected eight million people under the NEP. Our programme will lift 17.5 million more out of darkness within three years,” he said.
The REA has built mini-grids and solar systems in off-grid communities and electrified eight universities. The agency plans to deploy 42 interconnected mini-grids and has already completed six in Osun, Plateau, Cross River, and Niger States. Aliyu also highlighted power agreements with the University of Lagos, University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Benin, and University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Furthermore, Aliyu explained that the NEP relies on private-sector operators incentivised by capital grants. “We move away from traditional government contracts. By putting their own money at stake, private operators deliver sustainable and reliable power,” he said, addressing concerns about failed projects.
Aliyu also noted international partnerships, including a $190 million co-financing agreement with Japan’s JICA to provide electricity to an additional 1.83 million Nigerians. Domestically, Nigeria has expanded solar assembly capacity from 120 MW to over 600 MW, with plans to reach nearly 3 GW, reducing reliance on imported panels.
“The President Tinubu administration commits to ending electricity poverty. For the first time, Nigeria has a structured approach, and we are already seeing results,” Aliyu said.