In a pivotal step to bolster rural electrification in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu appointed Abba Aliyu as the new Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) on January 23, 2025, for a four-year term. Aliyu, who had been acting as the agency’s MD since March 2024, possesses over 20 years of expertise in energy policy and organizational development within both the private and public sectors. His prior experience includes overseeing the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP) at REA, where he managed a substantial $550 million fund from the World Bank and the African Development Bank.
Under Aliyu’s direction, the REA has initiated ambitious projects aimed at increasing electricity access in rural and underserved areas. A key initiative is the National Public Sector Solarization Initiative, supported by President Tinubu, which has a proposed budget allocation of N100 billion for 2025. This program aims to deliver solar energy to public institutions, fostering sustainable and dependable electricity solutions across the country.
During the 2024 fiscal year, the REA, under Aliyu’s leadership, executed various projects, including grid expansions and the installation of mini-grids tailored for agricultural purposes. These initiatives are designed to stimulate economic growth and enhance living standards in rural areas by ensuring consistent access to electricity.
Aliyu’s extensive experience encompasses significant leadership roles in both on-grid and off-grid power sectors, as well as in Nigeria’s water resources and transportation industries. His deep understanding of the energy sector is anticipated to advance the REA’s goal of delivering reliable electric power to rural communities, in line with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda for sustainable energy and power.
In line with the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing clean energy infrastructure across the country, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has made significant strides in executing Phase III of the Energizing Education Programme (EEP), which is financed by the African Development Bank. This phase aims to provide sustainable energy to eight additional federal universities, ultimately generating a total of 36.5MW upon its completion. A prominent project within this initiative is the 5MW Solar Hybrid Power Plant, designed to supply power to Modibbo Adama University in Yola, showcasing the government’s dedication to incorporating renewable energy solutions within educational settings.
Aliyu’s strategic vision and leadership play a vital role in propelling Nigeria’s electrification efforts, emphasizing renewable energy solutions and sustainable development to ensure universal access to electricity and enhance the quality of life for its citizens.
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