Abba Aliyu, the Managing Director and CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), has revealed that millions of Nigerians continue to face challenges with unreliable electricity in their homes and communities. He stressed the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions to address the country’s electricity gap.
In a statement on 𝕏 on Friday, Abba Aliyu, Managing Director and CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), emphasized that achieving nationwide electrification will require strategic partnerships and significant investments.
Aliyu’s comments came after the European Union (EU) and its partners unveiled a 550KWp Solar Mini Grid for Bakin Ciyawa and Kwande in the Qua’an Pan council area of Plateau State on Wednesday.
He acknowledged that Nigeria’s electricity access challenge is immense, with millions still lacking reliable power. “Bridging this gap requires massive investments, strategic partnerships, and a long-term commitment to sustainable energy solutions. The solution, however, lies in practical, incremental steps—projects like the Interconnected Mini-Grid Accelerated Scheme (IMAS) in Plateau State,” he said.
Aliyu highlighted the impact of the EU project, which will provide uninterrupted power to over 3,500 households and businesses, create new economic opportunities, and reduce 600 tons of CO₂ emissions annually.
“This project is a game-changer for these communities and demonstrates the power of decentralized renewable energy in helping Nigeria achieve its electrification goals,” he added.
Aliyu also expressed gratitude to the EU in Nigeria and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH for their continued support in scaling up renewable energy solutions. He emphasized the importance of partnerships in accelerating the country’s progress toward sustainable, inclusive energy access.
“As we move forward, we must continue to expand, replicate, and scale these efforts to ensure no community is left without power. Step by step, project by project, we will light up Nigeria,” he concluded.
