FG, REA flag off 42 solar projects in Adamawa, Kebbi

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA), in collaboration with the Federal and State Governments, has performed the groundbreaking of 42 renewable energy projects in Kebbi and Adamawa States to expand electricity access and stimulate economic growth.

The initiatives comprise 39 mini-grid projects in Adamawa State and a 3.5-megawatt solar power project in Kebbi State, both captured under the Federal Government’s rural electrification drive.

Speaking during the ceremony in Adamawa, the Minister of Power, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, described the projects as a major milestone under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He noted that the 39 mini-grids will inject nearly 27 megawatts of clean energy into the state, benefiting about 40,000 households and 6,000 small businesses.

“Behind every connection is more than a meter. It is a family whose quality of life will improve, an entrepreneur whose business will expand, and a community whose future will become brighter,” Tegbe said.

In his remarks, Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, described the infrastructure drive as a strategic turning point to launch an onslaught against energy poverty. He commended the synergy between the developer, Mahashakti Nigeria Limited, and the Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC).

Corroborating this, the Managing Director of the REA, Dr. Abba Abubakar Aliyu, added that the success of the project would ultimately be measured by the businesses, jobs, and transformed healthcare services it generates.

Meanwhile, in Kebbi State, Governor Nasir Idris flagged off the construction of a 3.5-megawatt solar power plant and a 33kV power infrastructure project in Ambursa. Governor Idris emphasized that the facility will be backed by robust battery storage systems to ensure sustainable supply after sunset.

The Chief Executive Officer of Kobeissi Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Ltd., Ali Kobeissi, assured stakeholders that the project would be completed within eight months, urging local communities to protect the installations against vandalism.