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  • Our interventions touching lives for good, says REA MD

    Our interventions touching lives for good, says REA MD

    Managing Director, Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Dr Abba Aliyu has said several programmes being implemented by the agency are positively influencing the lives of average Nigerians.

    He spoke in Lagos where he was honoured as the Public Sector CEO of the Year at the Nigerian NewsDirect 15th Anniversary and Award Ceremony.

    The organisers said the prestigious award underscored the agency’s significant strides in bridging Nigeria’s energy deficit.

    They said the award validated the impact of recent initiatives aimed at deploying sustainable energy solutions to unserved and underserved communities across the nation.

    In his acceptance speech, Aliyu dedicated the award to the citizens benefiting from the agency’s interventions, emphasizing that the recognition extends beyond leadership to the tangible impact on the ground.

    He said: “I am deeply humbled to receive this award. However, as I stated on the stage, this recognition is far bigger than one individual; it belongs to the millions of Nigerians whose lives are being transformed through access to reliable electricity. It belongs to the market woman who no longer spends half her income on diesel, to the student who can now study at night, and to the young innovator building new solutions because the lights stay on”.

    The REA has recently intensified its efforts through programmes such as the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) and the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP).

    These initiatives focus on utilizing renewable energy to drive economic growth and improve the quality of life in rural areas.

    Attributing the success of the agency to a collective effort, the MD expressed profound gratitude to the Federal Government and his team.

    He said: “My sincere appreciation goes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the opportunity to serve, and to my incredible team at the Rural Electrification Agency, the real heroes of this story. I also thank our development partners and private sector collaborators for their unwavering support”.

    Addressing the guests present at the event, Aliyu used the platform to inspire the next generation and his peers in governance.

    He charged Nigerian youths to embrace hard work and resilience, noting that success is accessible to anyone regardless of their background.

    He further called on colleagues across the public sector to continue pushing boundaries and leading with integrity to build a prosperous Nigeria.

    Other dignitaries at the event includes the Lagos State Governor represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr Lanre Adetokunbo Bajulaye (Man of the Year), The Olota of Ota, Oba (Prof) Adeyemi Abdulkabir Obalanlege (Royal father of the day), Chairman of Gibraltar Construction Nigeria Limited, Sir Olu Okeowo (Special guest of honour), Managing Director of Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, Engr (Dr) Adedeji Ashiru (Award of Exemplary Leadership in Public Service), Hon.Benjamin Olabinjo, Member representing Ifako-Ijaiye Federal Constituency (Lawmaker of the Year), Managing Director of Fidelity Bank ably represented by the Executive Director, Risk Management, Kevin Ugwuoke, amongst other distinguished personalities.

    The Rural Electrification Agency remains committed to its mandate of providing equitable access to electricity, viewing this award not as a destination, but as a motivation to accelerate its electrification targets.

  • NCDMB, NEXIM raise $42million to support oil, gas

    NCDMB, NEXIM raise $42million to support oil, gas

    •Forum to open up more deals

    In a move that reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening local participation in the oil and gas sector, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM) have disbursed $42 million to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to enhance indigenous capacity and competitiveness.

    Surpassing the initial $30 million fund, this initiative aligns with the goals of the upcoming Practical Nigerian Content (PNC) Forum 2025, scheduled for December at the Nigerian Content Tower, Yenagoa. Under the theme “Securing Investments, Strengthening Local Content, and Scaling Energy Production,” the forum will focus on driving local content development, fostering collaboration, and promoting sustainable growth in the energy industry.

    The 14th edition of the programme is a series of impact-focused high-level panel discussions. 

    Panel Sessions Include: “Streamlining Project Delivery for Improved Efficiency”, identifying the enablers required to unlock investment and drive projects; “Nigeria’s First Policy,” assessing progress 15 years after the NOGICD Act and how the Nigeria First Policy can drive broader economic value; “Turning Domestic Strength into Global Leadership,” exploring how Nigeria can build recognised centres of excellence; “Driving Energy Growth Through Technology and Innovation,” highlighting how digitalisation, automation, gas-powered solutions, and decarbonisation technologies can boost competitiveness and accelerate localisation.

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    Through strategic discussions and partnerships, PNC Forum 2025 aims to chart actionable pathways toward a more resilient and competitive Nigerian energy industry. The event will host over 750 delegates from across the oil, gas, and energy value chain, as well as more than 50 industry experts, policymakers, business leaders, and regulators. Distinguished speakers include Sen. Joel Onowakpo Thomas, Senate Chairman – Local Content, National Assembly, Hon Boma Goodhead, House Committee Chairman – Local Content, National Assembly, H.E. Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Federal Republic of Nigeria,  H.E. Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Sen. John Owan Enoh, Minister of State for Industry, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development & Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Olu A. Verheijen, Special Adviser to the President – Energy, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Nasir Alfa Mohammed, Ag. Deputy CEO, Petroleum Commission, Ghana, Ahmed Galadima Amiu, Executive Secretary, Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), Matthieu Bouyer, Country Chairman & MD, TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited, Jim Swartz, Chairman & MD, Chevron Nigeria Mid-Africa Business Unit, Jagir Baxi, Chairman, MD & Lead Country Manager, ExxonMobil Affiliates in Nigeria, Ronald Adams, MD, Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited, Adegbite Falade, MD & CEO, Aradel Holdings Plc, Roger Thompson Brown, CEO, Seplat Energy, Engr Wole Ogunsanya, Chairman, PETAN, Chris Osarumwense, President, OGTAN, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, mni, DG, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dr. Olasupo Olusi, MD, Bank of Industry, Abubakar A. Bello, MD & CEO, NEXIM Bank and many others.

    Speaking on PNC Forum 2025, Olamide Oloko, Conference Producer at dmg Nigeria events, remarked, “As the industry evolves, we must continue to create spaces that drive transformation through meaningful dialogue, innovation and partnerships. This is why the Practical Nigerian Content Forum remains a key platform for collaboration and progress within the energy sector.  This year’s theme is designed to reaffirm our shared commitment to positioning Nigeria as a competitive and attractive destination for investment, while advancing the true intent of the NOGICD Act and the Executive Orders to catalyse sustainable growth across the energy value chain.”

    Marking 15 years since the enactment of the NOGICD Act, PNC 2025 will serve as a strategic gathering for industry leaders, businesses, and policymakers, fostering collaboration, partnerships, and knowledge exchange. The forum will chart a clear roadmap for sustained growth and transformation in Nigeria’s energy sector, driving tangible outcomes, measurable impact, and long-term value within the country and across the global energy landscape.

  • REA, InfraCorp, Solarge BV set up firm to establish 1GW of solar

    REA, InfraCorp, Solarge BV set up firm to establish 1GW of solar

    In a landmark move to accelerate Nigeria’s energy transition and industrialization agenda, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria (InfraCorp), and Solarge BV of the Netherlands have formally announced the creation of Solarge Nigeria Limited, a special purpose vehicle (SPV) that will establish and operate a 1 gigawatt (GW) solar photovoltaic (PV) panel manufacturing facility in Nigeria. 

    The agreement was signed at infraCorp office central area, Abuja.

    This co-ownership and strategic offtake agreement/collaboration, aligns with the Federal Government of Nigeria’s National Public Sector Solarization Initiative (NPSSI) and the broader objectives of the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund (RHIDF), which aim to scale clean energy access across public institutions while building robust local content in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector.

    The special purpose vehicle (SPV), Solarge Nigeria Limited will be co-owned by: InfraCorp, REA, Solarge BV (Netherlands).

    REA made this known in a press statement issued on Wednesday.

    The statement explained that the public-private partnership will leverage InfraCorp’s investment mobilization capacity, REA’s policy leadership in rural electrification and public sector solarization, and Solarge BV’s advanced technology and manufacturing expertise to localize high-quality solar PV production in Nigeria.

    REA said the highlights of the project are 1GW Solar PV Factory and the others below.

    The agency added that it has a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility to be constructed in Nigeria, with a target of 50% local content within the first three years.

    The statement said the facility will support significant technology transfer, capacity building, and job creation, furthering Nigeria’s energy transition and industrial policy goals.

    Under the agreement, REA has committed to procure at least 200MW of solar modules per year over five years from Solarge Nigeria Ltd for NPSSI, RHIDF, and other public electrification programs.

    In his address during the signing of the offtake agreement, Director General Budget office, Tanimu Yakubu kurfi mentioned that, “This partnership exemplifies the type of innovation and collaboration that the Federal Government seeks to promote under the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund. It not only supports our fiscal sustainability goals but also deepens Nigeria’s industrial base and energy self-reliance.”

    Speaking on the partnership, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, Managing Director/CEO of REA stated that, “Through this joint venture, we are not only creating access to clean energy but building the local capacity to manufacture it. This initiative aligns perfectly with the Renewed Hope Agenda and our mandate to electrify communities and institutions.”

    Dr. Lazarus Angbazo, Managing Director/CEO of InfraCorp, added:

    “Solarge Nigeria Limited represents a bold step toward local manufacturing and energy sovereignty. We’re proud to partner with REA and Solarge BV to build a resilient and sustainable energy future for Nigeria.”

    Joost Brinkman, CEO of Solarge BV, also expressed enthusiasm, “We are excited to bring our technology and experience to this landmark initiative. Solarge Nigeria Ltd will set a new benchmark for solar manufacturing in Africa — built by Nigerians, for Nigerians.”

    The statement reads in part, “Solarge Nigeria Ltd will be governed by a Board of Directors representing all shareholders, including an independent non-executive director. A dedicated Project Management Office (PMO) and Offtake Coordination Desk will ensure seamless execution, regulatory compliance, and alignment with public procurement frameworks.

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    “The journey toward energy transition began with the official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the Budget Office of the Federation, InfraCorp, and the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) on Thursday, August 7, 2025. 

    “This event marked the formal launch of the National Public Sector Solarization Initiative (NPSSI) — a flagship government-led program to deploy distributed solar energy solutions across public institutions such as schools, hospitals, security posts, and government offices.

    “The initiative addresses a key national priority: providing clean, reliable energy to critical infrastructure, reducing diesel dependency, and cutting the public sector’s carbon footprint. 

    “The MoU also underscores stronger public-private collaboration to drive localized renewable energy manufacturing and transition Nigeria toward more sustainable energy financing models.”

  • Fed Govt’s N100b facility for REA to replace generators

    Fed Govt’s N100b facility for REA to replace generators

    The National Public Sector Solarisation Initiative (NPSSI), has received an initial funding of N100 billion, to replace diesel generators in public institutions with sustainable solar power systems.

    This was disclosed by the managing director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer,  Dr. Abba Aliyu.

    Targeted beneficiaries, according to the REA chief, include schools, hospitals, government offices, and other critical facilities.

    He made this known in a project initiation and planning meeting with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, at the Defense Headquarters in Abuja.

     The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the National Public Sector Solarization Initiative (NPSSI) and explore potential collaboration between the REA and the Nigerian Armed Forces in the deployment of solar power to Military formations.

     His words: “The NPSSI is a Federal Government–approved programme with an initial funding of N100 billion, designed to replace diesel generators in public institutions with sustainable solar power systems. Target beneficiaries include schools, hospitals, government offices, and other critical facilities.

    “The NPSSI is a collaborative effort led by the REA in partnership with the Budget Office of the Federation, Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria (InfraCorp), and the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI).”

    He added that REA’s goal is to cut energy costs, improve reliability, and advance Nigeria’s clean energy transition.”

    Highlighting the relevance to the Armed Forces, Aliyu noted that “several military formations had already expressed interest in solar interventions.

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    REA emphasised the importance of adopting a unified and strategic approach to ensure widespread benefits across the military formations,” hence the visit to the Chief of Defense Staff.

    He further explained that “for military formations to participate, an MOU with the military leadership would be required, stressing that the initiative is a pay-for-service model to ensure long-term sustainability.

    Similar agreements have already been signed with the Police Trust Fund, Nigeria Immigration Service, and Nigerian Correctional Service”.

    Responding, General Musa welcomed the proposal and expressed appreciation for the REA’s outreach.

    He said, “This is a timely and much-needed intervention. Several critical formations are in dire need of reliable power supply.

     “I will set up a military team to work closely with the REA to identify priority locations and develop a clear implementation plan.”

    Both parties also discussed leveraging the Nigerian Army Engineers and Logistics Unit to support deployment, installation, and maintenance of the solar systems. This proposal will be further reviewed by a joint REA–Military Solar Committee to be established following the meeting.

    The visit underscored the Federal Government’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions, as well as the REA’s drive to expand renewable energy access to critical public infrastructure across Nigeria.

  • FG approves N100b for REA to replace diesel generators in public institutions

    FG approves N100b for REA to replace diesel generators in public institutions

    The Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Abba Abubakar Aliyu, has said the National Public Sector Solarisation Initiative (NPSSI) is a federal government–approved programme with an initial funding of ₦100 billion, designed to replace diesel generators in public institutions with sustainable solar power systems.

    Targeted beneficiaries, according to him, include schools, hospitals, government offices, and other critical facilities.

    He made this known in a project initiation and planning meeting with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.

     The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the National Public Sector Solarisation Initiative (NPSSI) and explore potential collaboration between the REA and the Nigerian Armed Forces in the deployment of solar power to Military formations.

     His words, “The NPSSI is a Federal Government–approved programme with an initial funding of ₦100 billion, designed to replace diesel generators in public institutions with sustainable solar power systems. Target beneficiaries include schools, hospitals, government offices, and other critical facilities.

    “The NPSSI is a collaborative effort led by the REA in partnership with the Budget Office of the Federation, Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria (InfraCorp), and the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI).”

    He added that REA’s goal is to cut energy costs, improve reliability, and advance Nigeria’s clean energy transition.”

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    Highlighting the relevance to the Armed Forces, Aliyu noted that “several military formations had already expressed interest in solar interventions.

    REA emphasised the importance of adopting a unified and strategic approach to ensure widespread benefits across the military formations”, hence the visit to the Chief of Defence Staff.

    He further explained that “for military formations to participate, an MOU with the military leadership would be required, stressing that the initiative is a pay-for-service model to ensure long-term sustainability. Similar agreements have already been signed with the Police Trust Fund, the Nigeria Immigration Service, and the Nigerian Correctional Service.”

    Responding, General Musa welcomed the proposal and expressed appreciation for the REA’s outreach.

    He said, “This is a timely and much-needed intervention. Several critical formations are in dire need of a reliable power supply.

     “I will set up a military team to work closely with the REA to identify priority locations and develop a clear implementation plan.”

    Both parties also discussed leveraging the Nigerian Army’s Engineers and Logistics Unit to support the deployment, installation, and maintenance of the solar systems. This proposal will be further reviewed by a joint REA–Military Solar Committee to be established following the meeting.

    The visit underscored the Federal Government’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions, as well as the REA’s drive to expand renewable energy access to critical public infrastructure across Nigeria.

  • REA adds 120 job opportunities to renewable energy space

    REA adds 120 job opportunities to renewable energy space

    The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) is set to boost the renewable energy space with additional 120 jobs.

    Its Managing Director, Abba Aliyu disclosed this in Abuja during the “Official Launching of Next Gen RESCO Program : Empowering Future Leaders in Renewable Energy,” 

    He said: “We are here now starting going beyond the rhetoric, going beyond just talking and walking the talk. We are about to add 120 additional job opportunities into the space by this event that we are taking place. So we have started changing this narrative.”

    The job creation is due to the agency’s efforts at localizing the manufacturing of renewable energy equipment.

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    Aliyu said already in  terms of localization, through the deliberate policies of President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria now has a 600-megawatt PV panels manufacturing capacity.

    He recalled that the capacity was just 110 prior to Tinubu’s administration.

    He stressed: “Before Mr. President’s assumption of power, the total capacity of manufacturing in the country was just 110. 

    “But to date, we have 600-megawatt of PV panels manufacturing. We have LPV with 100-megawatt capacity in Lagos that is now fully functional, operational.”

  • Eight varsities to benefit from Education ministry, REA 24-hour electricity deal

    Eight varsities to benefit from Education ministry, REA 24-hour electricity deal

    • 24 federal tertiary institutions powered by solar energy, says Alausa

    The Federal Ministry of Education has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) under the Federal Government’s Energising Education Programme (EEP) to provide 24-hour electricity on campuses.

    The signing ceremony took place at the solar-powered mini-grid site of the University of Abuja, one of the beneficiaries of the transformative initiative.

    The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the transformative agenda through continued collaboration with the REA and institutional partners across the nation and beyond.

    A key highlight of the event was the signing of a collaboration agreement between the REA and eight new universities under Phase IV of the EEP.

    They include: University of Lagos (UNILAG); Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU); University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN); Federal University, Wukari; Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Federal University, Dutse; University of Benin (UNIBEN), and the University of Ibadan (UI).

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    Vice chancellors from the universities, except that of UNIBEB, were present at the event.

    Speaking at the event, Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, stated that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the government remained fully committed to expanding human capital development through the provision of reliable and sustainable energy infrastructure in the education sector.

    The minister said one of the President’s top priorities is ensuring 24-hour electricity supply to all federal and state-owned tertiary institutions.

    Dr. Alausa announced that the Federal Government was constructing mini-grid systems, ranging from 1.1 to 12.5 megawatts across federal tertiary institutions.

    “To date, 24 institutions have benefited from Pphases I to III of the programme. In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, the ministry, through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), will support the construction of an additional four to six independent mini-grids, with capacities between two and 10 megawatts, in selected universities across the country,” he said.

    Also, Dr. Alausa has said 24 federal institutions have been powered by solar energy under the “Energising Education Project” of President Tinubu’s administration.

    The minister spoke yesterday in Abuja at the collaboration agreement signing ceremony with vice chancellors of beneficiary institutions, added that eight more universities have signed collaboration agreements to join the fourth phase of the project.

    He described the project as a “new day for Nigeria”.

     hailed the transformative initiative under the Tinubu administration, aimed at providing uninterrupted power supply to federal tertiary institutions.

    The minister said the projects had wide-reaching benefits for education and the economy.

    According to him, the University of Abuja, which now boasts a solar farm comprising 6,000 photovoltaic panels, is generating approximately 3.3 megawatts of electricity daily, enough to power the campus round-the-clock.

    “This project brings continuous, 24-hour electricity to our institutions.

    “It allows for increased academic activity, powers laboratories and libraries throughout the day and night, and improves living and learning conditions for both students and faculty,” Alausa said.

    The minister emphasised the economic ripple effect of the initiative, explaining how reliable electricity stimulates business within campuses.

    “Any campus is a community by itself. With constant power supply, you unleash high economic activity,” he said.

  • REA, LPV Technologies partner to curb capital flight

    REA, LPV Technologies partner to curb capital flight

    An indigenous solar panel manufacturing company, LPV Technologies and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) have partnered to halt capital flight occasioned by the importation of solar panels.

    Managing Director, REA, Engr. Abba Aliyu, who spoke during a facility tour of the company’s state-of-the-art solar panel production plant in Lagos, described LPV Technologies as one of the most efficient factories in Nigeria, emphasising its strategic importance to the national energy transition plan.

    He reiterated that Nigeria needs approximately $410 billion to achieve a complete energy transition and at least $40 billion to bridge its electricity access gap.

    He lauded LPV Technologies, the country’s first vertically integrated solar manufacturing and renewable energy services firm, for its groundbreaking contributions to the country’s energy transition and job creation objectives.

    To this end, the government agency has reiterated its commitment to partner with the solar panel company to arrest capital flight on renewable energy in the country.

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     “The country with the greatest potential for distributed renewable energy, Nigeria, only created 70,000 jobs in the sector last year compared to China’s 7 million out of a global 14 million. We must turn our electricity access challenge into a job creation opportunity,” Aliyu noted.

    Commending LPV Technologies’ investments, Aliyu said the company has gone beyond manufacturing by also investing in implementation and talent development.

    “This is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s new economic strategy to localize production and enhance the GDP. What LPV is doing is turning a national challenge into a national opportunity,” he stated.

    He added that the company’s products surpass some imports in quality and traceability, pointing to the embedded technologies that track each panel from component sourcing to assembly.

    “This is Nigeria to the world. The panels made here can compete globally in terms of quality and automation. I’m proud to say that LPV’s products can stand side-by-side with any international brand,” he added.

    Aliyu also disclosed an ongoing collaboration between the REA and the Nigeria Police Force, aimed at solarizing police stations nationwide. This initiative, backed by a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), will draw from LPV’s production standards to ensure quality and reliability in implementation.

    “We’re already rolling this out and will provide further updates soon,” he said.

    The visit also had in attendance the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund, highlighting the multi-agency collaboration being fostered to drive Nigeria’s energy reforms using locally sourced solutions.

    Speaking at the event, the Chairman of LPV Technologies, Mr. Nzan Other emphasized the strategic importance of decentralized energy infrastructure to reduce the cost of power across Nigeria. He reaffirmed LPV’s commitment to supporting government efforts by building clean energy systems that are easy to deploy, resilient to traditional grid limitations, and adaptable to local contexts.

    “The biggest challenge in Africa today is not just corruption but energy security and the immunities around power. That’s what we have settled to address. What we’re doing here is more than production; it’s about creating affordable and scalable opportunities for energy access,” Mr. Nzan said.

    As Nigeria intensifies its push toward energy independence and inclusive electrification, the collaboration between REA and LPV Technologies offers a promising model for harnessing local capacity, stimulating economic growth, and meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    The visit, according to stakeholders, marks a new chapter in Nigeria’s energy story—where local ingenuity meets global ambition.

  • REA plans 8MW Nigeria’s first floating solar PV plant to power LASU

    REA plans 8MW Nigeria’s first floating solar PV plant to power LASU

    …signs agreement with Lagos for rooftop solar for public institutions 

    The Rural Agency (REA) has announced plans for Nigeria’s first floating solar PV plant (8MW) to power Lagos State University (LASU).

    Besides, the agency and the Lagos state government have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand access to clean energy in Lagos State, with a focus on powering public institutions through rooftop solar systems.

    The agreement, signed during the Lagos State Energy Summit on Monday 14th April, 2025 at Oriental Hotel Victoria Island lagos, marks a significant milestone under the REA’s State-by-State Initiative and aligns with the Federal Government’s push to deepen sub-national electricity access through the 2023 Electricity Act.

    The new partnership will support the deployment of sustainable, distributed energy solutions across Lagos, addressing the widespread use of over four million diesel generators in the state. 

    The initiative aims to replace this fragmented energy landscape with reliable, renewable alternatives.

    Speaking at the event, Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships in tackling energy challenges. “We have excess power generation—but it’s misdirected and not evenly distributed. This collaboration with REA will help bridge that gap,” he said.

    REA’s Managing Director/CEO, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, announced several major projects under the new agreement, including plans for Nigeria’s first floating solar PV plant (8MW) to power Lagos State University. 

    He also highlighted the upcoming $150 million Lithium Battery Assembly Plant at the Lekki Free Trade Zone and the establishment of a Renewable Energy University to boost local skills and innovation.

    According to Abba Aliyu, “partnership will also advance the National Public Sector Solarization Initiative (NPSSI) and the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) program, backed by the World Bank.”

    He added that, “this efforts are designed to empower local developers and build a robust market for Renewable Energy Service Companies (RESCOs) across the country.”

    The REA remains committed to fostering collaboration, local manufacturing, and innovation to drive Nigeria’s clean energy transition and ensure sustainable power access for all.

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    About the Rural Electrification Agency (REA)

    The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) is the Implementing Agency of the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) under the Federal Ministry of Power tasked with the electrification of unserved and underserved communities to catalyze economic growth and improve quality of life for Nigerians. The Agency was established under part IX, Sections 88- 89 of the Electric Power Sector Reform Act (EPSRA), 2005. 

    The REA is currently implementing the Rural Electrification Fund (REF), Capital Projects, Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP), Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES), National Public Sector Solarization Initiative NPSSI, Energizing Education Programme (EEP), Energizing Economies Initiative (EEI), Energizing Agriculture Programme (EAP), Energy for All – Mass Rural Electrification,Research and Innovation Hub. Africa Mini Grids Programme(AMP), Derisking Sustainable Off-Grid Lighting Solutions (DSOLS), the Korean Energy Project, Healthcare, Education, Agriculture, Rural Development And Transportation (e-HEART)and the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (GCIP).

    The Agency is responsible for creating an enabling environment for private sector-led projects, which includes conducting feasibility assessments, energy audits, enumeration, data analysis, identification of qualified private sector developers, and project stakeholder engagements.

  • Lagos, REA partner on floating solar power plant

    Lagos, REA partner on floating solar power plant

    The Rural Electrification Agency (REA), in partnership with the Lagos State government, is set to launch Nigeria’s first floating solar power plant, a landmark project to bridge the energy gap in the state.

    Unveiled during the Lagos Energy Summit, the initiative is part of a broader collaboration with the REA, culminating in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to scale up renewable energy access for unserved and underserved communities.

    The project, integrated with the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) programme, includes rooftop solar systems to power public facilities like schools, hospitals, and agricultural communities, promising to transform lives across the state.

    Speaking at the summit, the Managing Director of the REA, Abba Aliyu, outlined the vision for the floating solar project, emphasizing its role in addressing Lagos’s unique challenges.

    “Lagos faces a critical issue with limited land availability. By pioneering Nigeria’s first floating solar power plant, the REA, in partnership with Lagos State, is delivering an innovative solution to close the energy gap. This is about ensuring every Nigerian has access to reliable electricity – it’s not a privilege, it’s a right,” he said.

    The floating solar power plant, to be installed on one of Lagos’s water bodies, will utilize advanced photovoltaic technology to generate clean energy without consuming scarce land.

    “Lagos is proud to partner with the REA on this groundbreaking initiative. The floating solar plant and rooftop solar systems for schools, hospitals, and agricultural communities will not only generate power but also enhance lives, create jobs, and position Lagos as a leader in sustainable development,” the Commissioner for Energy, Biodun Ogunleye said, adding that it is a key figure in the state’s renewable energy drive.

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    The summit, a collaborative platform with the REA, showcased the MoU signing as a pivotal moment to advance the DARES program, described as the world’s largest publicly funded energy access initiative.

    The agreement commits the REA to funding 60per cent of the project costs, with Lagos State contributing 30per cent and private developers covering the remaining 10per cent while ensuring long-term sustainability.

    “This partnership is a game-changer. The REA is driving innovation, but it’s our collaboration with Lagos State and partners like the World Bank that will sustain these projects for 15 to 20 years,”  Head, Nigeria Electrification Program, Engr Olufemi Akinyelure, noted.

    Under DARES, the REA plans to electrify 25 rural communities in Lagos during the first phase, providing each with 2.5 Mw of renewable energy.

    The program includes infrastructure like 1,500 solar water pumps, e-tricycles for transporting goods, and cold storage to boost agricultural productivity.

    Rooftop solar systems will also power public facilities, ensuring reliable electricity for schools, hospitals, and farming communities.

    “We’ve mapped these areas thoroughly. In Epe, for example, farmers will benefit from solar-powered irrigation and cold storage, while schools and hospitals gain uninterrupted power to serve their communities,” Akinyelure explained.

    The initiative aligns with the Electricity Act of 2023, which fosters federal-state collaboration to address Nigeria’s energy deficit.

    “The Act empowers us to work together. Through DARES, we’re not just delivering electricity; we’re transforming education, healthcare, and agriculture,” Aliyu said.

    The World Bank, a key partner, was represented by Mr. Collins, the DARES task team lead. “Lagos and the REA are setting a historic precedent,” Collins said. “This floating solar project, combined with rooftop solar for public facilities, is a model for Africa. Our $750 million program aims to reach 17.5 million Nigerians, and Lagos is at the forefront.”

    The MoU signing, attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr Hamzat Obafemi marked a commitment to scale up renewable energy access.

    “This summit and partnership reflect Lagos’s forward-thinking leadership. The floating solar plant and DARES rooftop systems will bring power to our schools, hospitals, and farmers, enhancing lives and building a sustainable future,” he said.

    Economically, the initiative will drive local manufacturing, with plans to assemble solar components in Nigeria. “We’re not just importing technology. We’re laying a foundation for local production, creating jobs, and reducing costs,” Mr. Ogunleye, said.

    Despite challenges like securing approvals and managing logistics, the summit radiated optimism. “Some countries generate three gigawatts of renewable energy. With the REA and Lagos State leading, Nigeria can catch up and surpass them. This is our moment,” Aliyu said.