The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has commenced the construction of 42 renewable energy projects across Adamawa and Kebbi States, marking one of Nigeria’s largest decentralised clean energy initiatives aimed at expanding electricity access to underserved communities. The projects form part of the Federal Government’s strategy to improve rural electrification, stimulate economic development, and accelerate the country’s transition to renewable energy.
The programme comprises 39 solar-powered mini-grid projects in Adamawa State and a 3.5-megawatt (MW) solar power plant in Kebbi State, supported by associated 33kV electricity infrastructure. Collectively, the projects are expected to generate nearly 30MW of clean electricity, providing reliable power to thousands of households, businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, and public institutions.
The projects are being implemented by the REA in collaboration with the Federal Government, the Adamawa State Government, and the Kebbi State Government as part of the agency’s mandate to improve electricity access through sustainable and off-grid energy solutions. Construction has officially commenced, with contractors projecting completion within eight months, subject to favourable conditions and community support.
Speaking during the ground breaking ceremony, REA officials described the initiative as a major milestone in Nigeria’s rural electrification programme. They noted that expanding access to renewable energy would not only improve living standards but also enhance productivity, support small businesses, strengthen agricultural processing, and create new economic opportunities in rural communities.
The 3.5MW solar power project in Ambursa, Kebbi State, is expected to supply electricity to approximately 1,500 households, while the network of mini-grids in Adamawa will serve multiple underserved communities that currently have limited or no access to reliable electricity. The projects are designed to reduce dependence on diesel and petrol generators while promoting cleaner and more affordable energy solutions.
Industry analysts say the initiative represents another significant step toward achieving Nigeria’s universal energy access goals. Increased deployment of renewable energy infrastructure is expected to improve energy security, encourage private-sector investment, reduce carbon emissions, and support economic diversification by providing reliable electricity to productive sectors of the economy. The latest rollout reinforces the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding off-grid electrification through renewable energy, particularly in rural and underserved areas where extending the national grid remains economically challenging. The programme is also expected to contribute to Nigeria’s broader climate and sustainable development objectives by promoting clean energy adoption across the country.
