- The partnership will generate high-quality energy data to inform evidence-based planning and investment decisions.
- It will enhance understanding of electricity access, affordability, and adoption of off-grid solutions.
The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) have formalised their energy data partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Together, the REA and NBS will conduct a National Energy Survey using the Multi-Tier Tracking Framework (MTF) across Nigeria.
According to the REA, the MoU creates technical collaboration to produce high-quality, analytical energy data. Moreover, the initiative operates under the auspices of the World Bank’s Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP). It directly supports policy formulation, sector planning, and investment decisions in Nigeria’s power industry.
The agreement was signed in Abuja by REA’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr Abba Aliyu, and NBS’ Statistician-General/CEO, Adeyemi Adeniran. Aliyu said the partnership reinforces REA’s commitment to data-driven rural electrification planning.
He added, “This collaboration will provide credible, detailed data on electricity access, affordability, and off-grid solutions nationwide.”
Furthermore, Aliyu noted that the findings will inform the National Electrification Strategy and Implementation Plan (NESIP) while enhancing investor confidence.
Adeniran highlighted the importance of sound statistical standards. He said, “NBS provides technical oversight, sampling expertise, and quality assurance to meet global best practices.” Additionally, he emphasised that reliable data underpin sustainable development and effective policymaking.
The MoU defines clear collaborative activities:
- Assess energy access at household, community, enterprise, and public institution levels using the Multi-Tier Tracking Framework (MTF).
- Analyse affordability, expenditure patterns, willingness to pay, and adoption of off-grid technologies such as solar home systems, mini-grids, and clean cooking solutions.
Under the partnership, REA will lead sector expertise, stakeholder engagement, public awareness, and alignment with rural electrification priorities. Meanwhile, NBS provides regulatory approval, methodological validation, technical supervision, and enumerator training to ensure data quality.
The World Bank, via ESMAP, funds and oversees the survey, while a qualified survey firm collects and analyses field data.
The MoU remains in effect for 18 months. Data generated will support national energy planning, enhance programme targeting, and guide private sector investments. Additionally, it strengthens Nigeria’s transition toward universal access to electricity and clean cooking.
This collaboration illustrates the federal government’s commitment to inter-agency cooperation, reliable energy data, and sustainable electrification of rural communities. The REA, under the Federal Ministry of Power, continues to drive economic growth and improve Nigerians’ quality of life through electrification initiatives.