By Ajibola Olaide, JKNewsMedia Reporter
ACCESS TO reliable electricity remains a major challenge in many rural communities across Nigeria, hindering economic growth and social development.
To address this, the Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving energy access, particularly in underserved regions, with the commissioning of a 990kW solar hybrid mini grid in Lambata, Gurara Local Government Area of Niger State.
The initiative is set to power approximately 3,900 households, transforming lives and boosting local enterprises.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, emphasised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s determination to ensure that every rural community in Nigeria has access to sustainable electricity, either through the national grid or renewable energy solutions.
He noted that Nigeria’s participation in the World Bank and African Development Bank (AfDB)’s Energy Summit aligns with the administration’s broader vision to extend electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030.
“This commitment resonates strongly with the discussions at the recent Africa Energy Summit in Tanzania, particularly under the M3OO initiative. Nigeria, under President Tinubu’s leadership, is demonstrating its dedication to scaling up renewable energy solutions and ensuring energy security across the country,” Adelabu stated.
He expressed appreciation to the German government, the European Union (EU), and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) for their collaboration in making the project a reality.
According to him, international partnerships remain critical to Nigeria’s energy transition efforts, with the Ministry of Power committed to ensuring effective project monitoring and implementation to deliver results.
“I assure all our development partners, particularly the EU, the German Government, and GIZ, that we are institutionalising a framework to ensure rigorous monitoring and evaluation of all funded projects.
“This will guarantee that resources are effectively utilised, and the intended impact is achieved. We are determined to overcome any previous obstacles in project execution,” he said.
Adelabu further urged Nigeria’s development partners to remain steadfast in their support for the country’s energy infrastructure projects, highlighting Nigeria’s growing role as a focal point for global development efforts.
He described collaboration and partnerships as the driving force for sustainable progress in the power sector.
The Minister stressed the far-reaching impact of the new mini grid, noting that beyond lighting up homes, it will enhance agricultural productivity, support local businesses, improve educational opportunities, and strengthen healthcare services in the community.
He stressed that decentralising energy generation and promoting renewable power solutions is essential to achieving nationwide electrification.
“This mini grid represents much more than solar panels and electrical connections; it signifies economic empowerment, improved quality of life, and sustainable development.
By providing clean and reliable electricity, we are creating opportunities for small businesses, farmers, students, and healthcare facilities to thrive,” he added.
He praised the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) for its role in implementing the Interconnected Mini-Grid Acceleration Scheme (IMAS) and called for similar projects to be replicated in rural communities nationwide.
He encouraged local leaders and residents to take ownership of the project by safeguarding it against vandalism and contributing their share to its maintenance.
“We must protect this investment and ensure its sustainability. The success of this initiative depends on community involvement and commitment. It is essential that residents embrace their financial responsibilities in keeping the grid functional,” he said.
Acknowledging Niger State’s strategic role in Nigeria’s power sector, Adelabu commended the state government for hosting key hydroelectric power plants, including Jebba, Kainji, Shiroro, and the newly launched Zungeru plant.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to leveraging Nigeria’s abundant renewable energy resources, such as solar and wind power, to expand electricity access across the country.
“As we celebrate this achievement in Lambata, we must recognise that our work is far from over. Our goal is to ensure that no community in Nigeria is left in darkness. With the Lagos-Calabar and Badagry-Sokoto highways opening up more opportunities, we have all it takes to harness our God-given resources and build a self-sufficient energy sector,” he stated.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including the Deputy Ambassador of Germany to Nigeria, Mr. Johannes Lennes; the Head of Cooperation of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Massive De Lucg; and the Managing Director of the REA, Engr. Abba Aliyu, among others.
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