The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has formalized a strategic partnership with Mercy Corps through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to improve electricity access in Nigeria’s rural areas. The signing ceremony occurred at REA’s Corporate Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, July 4, 2024.
The primary objectives of the MoU include enhancing the capabilities of the Rural Electricity Users Cooperative Society (REUCS), supporting the Africa Mini-grid Programme (AMP) with expert guidance and resources, and developing enduring business strategies for the operation and maintenance of the Korean Energy Project.
This collaboration between REA and Mercy Corps signifies a robust commitment to enhancing the socio-economic conditions of Nigeria’s rural communities. The partnership aims to provide reliable electricity to critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and local businesses, thereby fostering overall social and economic development.
REA’s Managing Director/CEO, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, emphasized the importance of sustainability in his remarks. He stated, “Today’s MoU signing strengthens REA’s drive for sustainability of projects. There is a need to plan for the end of projects and to put in sustainable measures that will drive the continuity of the project post-completion.
“At REA, the REUCS is the platform to ensure this sustainability. This platform ensures the operation and maintenance of the projects as well as the security of the infrastructure and revenue collection. Through years of expertise under this strategic partnership, Mercy Corps will help the Agency sustain projects deployed.”
Mercy Corps Nigeria’s Country Director, Ndubuisi Anyawu, highlighted the transformative potential of this partnership. He stated, “Today is pivotal for us with this signing with the REA. It is not just a formality but a spark that ignites partnership. We stand firm with REA’s mandate and envision a Nigeria that, no matter how remote, has access to electricity that powers homes, education, healthcare, and social development. This MoU represents a powerful partnership that will mobilize communities to form strong cooperatives to ensure economic growth. We are honoured to partner with REA.”
The REA and Mercy Corps partnership is a forward-thinking initiative to address the critical need for electricity in Nigeria’s rural areas. By focusing on capacity building, technical assistance, and sustainable business practices, this collaboration will substantially impact rural communities’ socio-economic development. As both organizations work together, they pave the way for Nigeria’s brighter, more electrified future.