- Governor Bala Mohammed pledged to collaborate with REA to expand electricity access in rural areas, attract investors, and stimulate industrial growth.
- The deal targets over 100 mini-grids and 2.5MW of power for 25 communities, with REA funding 60% and Bauchi 40%.
The Bauchi State Government announced that it will partner with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to expand electricity access in rural areas, attract private investment, and stimulate industrial growth across the state.
Governor Bala Mohammed announced the plan on Wednesday, November 5, at the REA State-by-State Roundtable Engagement in Abuja, saying effective governance requires partnerships that deliver tangible development in rural communities.
He said Bauchi’s location between major geopolitical zones provides a strong base for renewable energy expansion and economic diversification, adding that the state is committed to improving power access to drive business growth and improve livelihoods.
Secretary to the State Government, Aminu Hammayo, stated that Bauchi is developing a state electricity policy, which will establish a regulatory framework and a rural electrification agency. He noted that the government also plans to increase budgetary funding for the energy sector and establish a Bauchi Energy Academy to train young people and create employment opportunities.
Meanwhile, Hammayo said Bauchi has geothermal and other renewable energy potential that can support industrial and commercial activities.
REA Managing Director Abba Aliyu and Executive Director Doris Uboh stated that the roundtable aimed to connect Bauchi with private renewable energy developers who have mobilised more than $2 billion and deployed over 500 mini-grids nationwide.
They disclosed that the project model will see REA fund 60% of the initiative, with the state covering 40%. This model will increase Bauchi’s mini-grid projects from 22 to over 100, delivering 2.5 megawatts of power to 25 communities, enhancing security, and expanding income opportunities.
The event ended with the signing of memoranda of understanding between the Bauchi State Government and the REA.