The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has marked a significant achievement with the launch of a 990kWp solar hybrid mini-grid in the Lambata community, located in the Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State. This project, valued at €9.3 million and funded by the European Union with additional support from the German government, highlights REA’s commitment to improving energy access in areas that lack sufficient resources.
Under the leadership of Managing Director Abba Aliyu, REA has played a crucial role in advancing electrification efforts across Nigeria. Appointed as the Managing Director in January 2025, Aliyu brings over 20 years of expertise in energy policy and organizational development. His previous experience includes leading the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP), where he oversaw a $550 million initiative backed by the World Bank and the African Development Bank.
The Lambata mini-grid aims to deliver dependable electricity to around 3,900 households, greatly enhancing the community’s living standards. By combining photovoltaic panels with state-of-the-art battery storage systems, the project guarantees a consistent and sustainable power supply, thereby decreasing dependence on fossil fuels and supporting environmental sustainability.
Aliyu’s forward-thinking strategy encompasses the expansion of similar renewable energy projects throughout the country. He has been instrumental in obtaining approval for the $750 million Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) initiative from the World Bank, which builds on the achievements of the NEP. This program is set to establish 100 additional mini-grids, providing electricity to more than 1.83 million Nigerians.
The initiatives led by REA under Aliyu’s direction are in line with Nigeria’s broader goals of diversifying its energy sources and minimizing reliance on fossil fuels. By promoting public-private partnerships and utilizing international funding, REA is advancing the development of off-grid and interconnected mini-grid solutions, thereby improving electricity access in rural and underserved areas.
Aliyu’s leadership is characterized by a strong emphasis on transparency and accountability in overseeing significant investments intended to rejuvenate Nigeria’s power sector. His dedication to sustainable energy initiatives establishes Nigeria as a frontrunner in renewable energy advancement across Africa, offering hope for a more sustainable and prosperous future for its rural populations.
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