Access to power, efficient electrical power, has been a major challenge for Nigerians. With multi million dollar deals cut with foreign companies for the “electrificaton” of Nigerians over the last 25 years or so, it is unfathomable that a country with diverse means of generating power is still wallowing in darkness.

But all of that dissapointment is about to change as the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is making concerted efforts towards the rural electrification of Nigeria, one community at a time.

The Federal Minister of Power through the Rural Electrification Agency of Nigeria marked another milestone in the energy sector. 180,000 Nigerians in Toto Community, Nasarawa State now has access to clean, safe and reliable energy through a 352.24KwP solar hybrid interconnected mini-grid. The community, delightfully is in celebration mood as they are now relieved from energy poverty.

“I will like to align with the Honourable Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu that “power has no color” and  it is the right of every Nigerian to have access to electricity irrespective of where they live. Therefore, stakeholders with diverse mandates must continue to collaborate and explore innovative ways to deliver sustainable energy for all.

“With the collaboration between the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company, PowerGen Renewable Energy (the Project Developer) and the Federal Government’s implementing Agency, REA we have once again shown what can be achieved through the power of synergy and strategic partnerships,” says Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, the MD/CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency.

According to Ahmad Salihijo, the over 100 mini-grids so far deployed through the World Bank Performance-Based Grant under the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP), is a model the Agency has so much confidence in.

 

For the current trajectory of the energy sector to be optimized fully, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) set the power sector on a commendable growth path through the passage of the 2023 Electricity Act. And with the passion, vision and foresight of the Honourable Minister of Power Chief Adebayo Adelabu, the power sector is set to deliver on its mandate.

“We were particularly excited speaking with some of the beneficiaries in the community and learning of the transformative impact of this project. From reduction in cost of production to increase in profit. From the elimination of carbon-emitting generating-sets to the positive impact on lives and livelihood.

“141 commercial users benefitting. 18 Productive Users and 45 Public Users optimizing the benefits of this project. 2000 households impacted,” according to Ahmad Salihijo.

As at the last count in Toto community of Nasarawa state, 180,000 Nigerians have now been impacted through this project, and at the REA, the goal is to continue to power Nigeria, one community at a time.